FIFA Lifts Pakistan Football Federation Suspension After Constitutional Amendments

In a significant development for football in Pakistan, FIFA has officially lifted the suspension imposed on the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) after the federation successfully implemented constitutional amendments mandated by the global football governing body and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). The decision, announced on March 2, 2025, marks a new chapter for Pakistani football, which has faced years of turmoil due to administrative disputes and third-party interference.

The PFF held an extraordinary congress in Lahore on Thursday, where the constitutional amendments were unanimously approved, fulfilling FIFA's conditions for reinstatement. FIFA had suspended the PFF on February 6, 2025, citing governance issues and external interference, a recurring problem that has plagued the federation since 2017.

In its official statement, FIFA confirmed, "The Bureau of the FIFA Council decided on 2 March 2025 to lift the suspension that was imposed on the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) on 6 February 2025." The PFF expressed gratitude to FIFA and AFC for their support, stating on X (formerly Twitter), "We thank FIFA and AFC for their continued support of Pakistan football and extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Pakistan football community."

A New Dawn for Pakistani Football

The lifting of the suspension comes as a relief for football enthusiasts in Pakistan, as it ensures the national team's participation in the upcoming third round of the Asian Cup qualifiers, starting later this month. The PFF had earlier announced that Pakistan will face Syria on March 25, with re-appointed coach Stephen Constantine at the helm. Constantine, who previously guided the team to their first-ever World Cup qualifying round victory in October 2023, is expected to bring renewed energy and strategy to the squad.

This reinstatement also paves the way for Pakistan to rebuild its football infrastructure, which has suffered due to years of administrative chaos. The PFF's normalization committee, which regained control of the federation's premises and finances in 2022, has been instrumental in steering the organization toward stability.

Challenges Ahead

While the lifting of the suspension is a positive step, challenges remain. Pakistan's football community must now focus on grassroots development, improving facilities, and fostering talent to compete at the international level. The PFF will also need to ensure transparency and good governance to avoid future suspensions and regain the trust of stakeholders.