ছবি: Photo: Collected
In a significant relief for the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), FIFA has lifted its financial sanctions imposed on the country’s football governing body. This decision, announced on March 7, comes after a six-year period of strict monitoring and restrictions, allowing BFF to once again receive regular FIFA grants and apply for development projects.
The financial sanctions were first imposed in 2018 when FIFA placed BFF under special observation due to allegations of financial irregularities. Although BFF continued to receive FIFA grants, the funds were subject to stringent conditions and prolonged scrutiny, hindering the development of football in the country.
The situation became more critical in 2023 when former BFF General Secretary Abu Nayeem Sohag was banned for life. Following this, newly appointed General Secretary Imran Hossain Tushar pledged to restore transparency. Under the leadership of President Tabith Awal, BFF took several steps to regain FIFA’s trust.
In February, a FIFA delegation visited Dhaka to audit BFF’s financial management. Satisfied with the findings, FIFA officially communicated its decision to lift the special observation on March 7. This marks a new beginning for BFF, which can now access FIFA funds without restrictions and pursue development initiatives more freely.
The decision underscores the positive changes brought by the new leadership, particularly in financial transparency and governance. The focus now shifts to how effectively BFF can utilize this opportunity to advance football in Bangladesh.
repoter
