Fawad Hasan Fawad expresses concerns over FIFA Normalization Committee

Federal Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination Fawad Hasan Fawad has expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of the FIFA Normalization Committee for Pakistan citing a failure to conduct elections in the past four years.

In an exclusive interview with SAMAA TV Minister Fawad revealed that he has written a letter to FIFA addressing these concerns.

Highlighting his disappointment, Minister Fawad stated, "The Normalization Committee has not been able to hold elections for four years, and it has also become entangled in political matters." He emphasized the need for transparent and effective governance within the committee.

In his letter to FIFA, Minister Fawad Hasan Fawad conveyed the concerns regarding the committee's prolonged inability to hold elections and its unwarranted involvement in political affairs.

Despite the challenges, Fawad Hasan Fawad affirmed his commitment to the development of football and other sports in Pakistan. He expressed his determination to work towards ensuring accountability and efficiency within sports governing bodies to promote a healthier sports environment in the country.

Must Read: FIFA World Cup qualifiers round: Pakistan, Tajikistan to clash tomorrow

Also, Soccer fans in Pakistan might miss the chance to cheer for their team on home ground during the FIFA World Cup qualifier against Jordan, as the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) disclosed that Islamabad's Jinnah Stadium doesn't meet FIFA's standards.

In a statement issued on Monday, the PFF explained that they've been working hard, teaming up with the Pakistan Sports Board, to get Jinnah Stadium ready for the March match against Jordan. Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, the stadium falls short of FIFA's requirements, mainly due to issues with the lighting conditions.

"The upcoming March game is scheduled to be held under lights and coincides with Ramadan, making it challenging to meet FIFA’s lighting standards with the current setup," the PFF expressed.

Acknowledging the January 21 deadline for submitting the venue and their commitment to maintaining the game's integrity, the PFF confirmed they are actively searching for alternative venues. "We're in touch with the Jordan Football Association to figure out arrangements for a neutral venue for the home leg," the statement added.

It's worth noting that Jinnah Stadium hosted Pakistan's home game in the FIFA World Cup qualifier against Tajikistan in November, attracting a crowd of 24,000 enthusiastic spectators rallying behind the national team.