The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has lifted its suspension on the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF).
This decision was made after the PFF implemented the necessary constitutional amendments required by FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
Background of the Suspension
FIFA imposed the suspension on February 6, 2025, due to the PFF’s failure to amend its constitution as directed by the global governing body.
This was not the first time the PFF faced such action; it had been suspended previously in 2017 and 2021 due to third-party interference in its operations.
Resolution and Constitutional Changes
The PFF Congress held an extraordinary meeting in Lahore, where members unanimously approved the constitutional amendments validated by FIFA and the AFC. This move fulfilled the conditions set by FIFA for lifting the suspension.
The decision to lift the ban was officially announced by the Bureau of the FIFA Council on March 2, 2025.
Impact and Future Participation
With the suspension lifted, Pakistan is now eligible to participate in international football competitions, including the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.
The national team is scheduled to face Syria in their Group E opener on March 25, marking a significant return to competitive football for Pakistan.
Governance and Normalisation Committee
Since June 2019, Pakistani football has been governed by a FIFA-appointed normalisation committee, tasked with conducting elections and resolving internal disputes.
Despite multiple leadership changes, core issues persisted until the recent constitutional amendments were approved.
Reaction from PFF and Football Community
The PFF expressed gratitude to FIFA and the AFC for their support, congratulating the Pakistani football community on this positive development. This move is seen as a crucial step towards stabilizing and growing football in Pakistan.
The lifting of the suspension on the PFF marks a significant milestone for Pakistani football, allowing the country to re-enter international competitions and work towards rebuilding its football infrastructure.
