Pakistan Football Federation Approves FIFA Amendments to Lift Suspension
The Pakistan Football Federation has unanimously approved FIFA’s proposed constitutional amendments to facilitate the lifting of its international suspension, allowing hopes for the national team’s participation in AFC Asian Cup qualifiers. This decision comes after a vote of 23-0 in Lahore, amid pressure to resolve the suspension before the impending March 25 match against Syria.
The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has made progress toward rejoining international football by unanimously adopting constitutional amendments recommended by FIFA. This decision was made during an extraordinary congress on Thursday in Lahore, where FIFA and Asian Football Confederation officials were present. FIFA had imposed a third international suspension on Pakistan on February 6, following the federation’s refusal to implement electoral reforms.
The PFF’s congress voted 23-0 in favor of the proposed amendments, signaling a commitment to improve Pakistan’s football governance. The federation expressed hope that the approval would facilitate their national team’s participation in the upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, assuming the suspension is lifted promptly. Pakistan aims to compete against Syria on March 25 in their first qualifier for the 2027 Asian Cup. To achieve this, the Asian Football Confederation has communicated that the ban must be resolved by an impending Tuesday deadline.
The Pakistan Football Federation’s unanimous approval of FIFA’s constitutional amendments represents a significant step towards lifting the international suspension imposed on the country. This move not only underscores the PFF’s dedication to reform but also reopens avenues for Pakistan’s national football team to compete internationally. The PFF looks forward to potentially participating in the Asian Cup qualifiers, contingent upon the timely lifting of the suspension.
Original Source: apnews.com
