FIFA Lifts Ban On Pakistan Football Federation

FIFA has officially lifted its suspension on the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) after the organization made necessary amendments to its constitution.

The suspension, initially imposed on February 6, 2025, was removed on March 2, 2025, allowing Pakistan to rejoin international football.

According to FIFA’s statement, “The Bureau of the FIFA Council decided on March 2, 2025, to lift the suspension that was imposed on the PFF on February 6, 2025.”

Shahid Khokhar, a member of the PFF Normalisation Committee, confirmed the decision, highlighting the role of the PFF Congress in meeting FIFA’s and the Asian Football Confederation’s (AFC) requirements. He stated, “The suspension has been lifted following the successful outcome of the PFF Extraordinary Congress on February 27.”

Khokhar also expressed gratitude to FIFA and the AFC for their continued support, saying, “We thank FIFA and AFC for their continued support of Pakistan football and extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Pakistan football community.”

With the ban lifted, Pakistan can now resume international competitions, including the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers. The national team is set to play Syria later this month.

However, Pakistan’s journey in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers has been difficult. The team lost all six matches in the first round against strong opponents like Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Tajikistan.

Former Pakistan national team coach Stephen Constantine, who led the team through some of its historic victories, also reacted to the development. He expressed his appreciation, saying, “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the PFF NC for entrusting me with the incredible opportunity to lead the Pakistan national team through some of its most historic achievements.”

Constantine also praised his team’s dedication, adding, “To my staff, every individual on and off the pitch, you were phenomenal. To the players, you achieved something unparalleled for Pakistan football, and you did it with heart and style.”

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 teams, an increase of 16 teams from previous editions. While Pakistan is no longer in the race, the lifting of its ban marks a new chapter for the country’s football.
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