COMMENT | FIFA’s decision to delay AFCON player releases fuels outrage across Africa

FIFA’s recent decision to postpone the release of players ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has sparked a wave of anger and frustration across the ‘Mother Continent’.

Scheduled to begin on December 21 and end on January 18 in Morocco, national teams were to have access to their players starting from December 8. However, in a surprising move last week, FIFA announced that clubs would now have until December 15 to release their selected players, catching many teams off guard.

The shift away from the long-established policy of earlier player releases has raised critical questions around fairness and preparation for Africa’s premier football tournament.

Coaches, players, and fans alike have voiced their discontent, asserting that FIFA’s last-minute ruling undermines the integrity of the tournament and disrespects African football.

FIFA announced that the decision stemmed from “productive consultations” and aims to simplify matters for all parties involved. Yet, this reasoning has done little to placate the ire of several African football managers, who argue that the world governing body is failing to respect the significance of African competitions.

Many African managers and coaches feel deeply betrayed by the global undervaluation of African football. Managers are lamenting that FIFA’s priorities appear to be focused solely on Europe, where the financial dominance of clubs casts a long shadow over the sport.

AFCON managers and coaches feel that FIFA regards Europe as the centre of football, and that’s all that matters. Many people in Africa believe that African football is frequently ignored.

Adding to the outrage are the perceptions that FIFA could have sought alternatives, including the contentious idea of European leagues pausing to accommodate the AFCON schedule.

As the December 15 deadline for players approaches, national teams face the daunting challenge of preparing for AFCON while navigating the hurdles posed by this controversial FIFA decision.

The tournament, a showcase of African talent and sporting spirit, is now overshadowed by administrative disruption.

Leaders of African football are now united in calling for a reevaluation of FIFA’s engagement with their continent, insisting that respect and fairness must be integral to the decision-making processes that affect the beautiful game.

Though seemingly not shaken by the late release of overseas-based players, Bafana Bafana were not spared as some of the squad members like Siyabonga Ngezana also fall under the December 15 FIFA deadline.