China's football association has proposed the 18th edition of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../fifa-votes-for-new-club-world-cup-euro-clubs- confirm-boycott-203684">&nbsp;FIFA Club World Cup</a>&nbsp;to begin on June 17 and the final to take place&nbsp;on July 4. The proposal was sent to the FIFA Council by the Chinese Football Association (CFA).

FIFA president Gianni Infantino had announced in October last year&nbsp;that China will hold the inaugural expanded version of the 2021 Club World Cup.

The new Club World Cup will be held every four years featuring 24 league teams across the globe replacing&nbsp;the current seven-team annual format.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">Also Read:&nbsp;Liverpool end sensational year as Roberto Firmino's extra-time goal seals Club World Cup</a>

The finals and the opening match is supposed to be held in Shanghai. Guangzhou, Tianjin, Wuhan, Shenyang, Jinan, Hangzhou and Dalian are among the other cities selected to host the&nbsp;Club World Cup match.&nbsp;

China's state-run media Xinhua quoting China football Association source said the proposals have not yet been approved by FIFA.

China's football association has proposed the 18th edition of FIFA Club World Cup to begin on June 17 and the final to take place on July 4. The proposal was sent to the FIFA Council by the Chinese Football Association (CFA).

China's football association has proposed the 18th edition of FIFA Club World Cup to begin on June 17 and the final to take place on July 4. The proposal was sent to the FIFA Council by the Chinese Football Association (CFA). FIFA president Gianni Infantino had announced in October last year that China will hold the inaugural expanded version of the 2021 Club World Cup. The new Club World Cup will be held every four years featuring 24 league teams across the globe replacing the current seven-team annual format. Also Read: Liverpool end sensational year as Roberto Firmino's extra-time goal seals Club World Cup The finals and the opening match is supposed to be held in Shanghai. Guangzhou, Tianjin, Wuhan, Shenyang, Jinan, Hangzhou and Dalian are among the other cities selected to host the Club World Cup match. China's state-run media Xinhua quoting China football Association source said the proposals have not yet been approved by FIFA.

China proposes Club World Cup to be held in June 17  next year; FIFA to decide

Athletes, executives and fans are turning sports in an era of defiance and dissent into a battleground for freedom of expression and political change, wherein national and international sports associations adhere to human rights on the spot.

Denunciations of repression in China’s troubled north-western province of Xinjiang and support for pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong by soccer celebrity Mesut Ozil, Houston Rockets basketball general manager Darryl Morey, and rugby superstar Sonny Bill Williams alongside soccer fans in regions like Morocco and Hong Kong, highlight the willingness of sports associations to sacrifice the values attributed to sports for commercial gain in their dealings with autocratic nations.

They also by implication puncture the fiction of a separation of sports and politics that sports associations have long employed to justify their often-close ties to government and dealings with countries irrespective of their records in upholding basic rights.

By distancing themselves from statements of Morey and Ozil, despite the latter’s ties to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, English Premier League club Arsenal and the US National Basketball Association (NBA) have served to highlight the discrepancy between sports associations’ declared principles and their policies.

So has China with its penalising of the NBA and Ozil for their critical statements.

The gap between professed principles and practice is, even more, yawning with the awarding of the 2021 FIFA Club World Cup to China despite Chinese president Xi Jinping’s crackdown in Xinjiang and his moves to turn the People’s Republic into a 21st-century Orwellian surveillance state.

FIFA awarded the hosting rights in a consultative rather than a transparent bidding process.

In a letter to Human Rights Watch, FIFA justified its decision by insisting that the Chinese football association, as well as China, had committed “To respect human rights in their activities associated with the tournament in accordance with internationally recognised human rights standards and FIFA’s own Human Rights Policy.”

It was not clear how human rights associated with the Club World Cup could be separated from the overall crackdown in China. Nor was it clear why FIFA would help Xi take a step towards fulfilling his dream of China first qualifying for the World Cup, then winning the World Cup and ultimately hosting the tournament.

The awarding casts doubt on FIFA’s campaign against racism in stadiums given that the crackdown in Xinjiang aims to force Turkic Muslims to violate principles of their faith and adopt Xi Jinping though as superseding Islam.

The re-emergence of sports as a battleground is not limited to the plight of Xinjiang. Hong Kong fans recently took their struggle for greater democracy to a match in South Korea.

Chinese and Hong Kong broadcasters refrained from showing the playing of the national anthems when China and Hong Kong played each other earlier this month in an East Asia Football Federation (EAFF) Championship match.

Hong Kong fans booed China’s anthem, chanted “Liberate Hong Kong, the revolution of our times,” and displayed Hong Kong’s British-era flag.

Support for national teams in autocracies like Egypt and Syria has dropped with fans demanding reforms of regime-controlled football federations that are widely viewed as corrupt,

"Egypt's national team is also its national embarrassment ... Plenty of Egyptians are basking in the team's loss today," tweeted journalist Karim Zidan in July after host Egypt crashed out of the African Cup of Nations.

Privately, many fans assert that the team represents the repressive regime of general-turned-president Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi rather than its historically huge fan base.

Sentiments in war-torn Syria are no different.

“Anyone who knows Syria well knows that in Syria there are no independent institutions, and that includes sporting institutions… Considering this (national) team as one that is above politics and a national team that unites people is a big lie and part of certain propaganda,” said Syrian journalist Hala Droubi.

In Morocco, fans, dressed in black, last year booed the national anthem during a match in the northern city of Tetouan that was being broadcast live on television in protest against the killing by the Moroccan navy of a 20-year old student as she tried to illegally cross into Spain.

It is a sentiment shared by anti-government protesters across the globe from Latin America to Asia.

(Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Athletes, executives and fans are turning sports in an era of defiance and dissent into a battleground for freedom of expression and political change, wherein national and international sports associations adhere to human rights on the spot.

Athletes, executives and fans are turning sports in an era of defiance and dissent into a battleground for freedom of expression and political change, wherein national and international sports associations adhere to human rights on the spot. Denunciations of repression in China’s troubled north-western province of Xinjiang and support for pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong by soccer celebrity Mesut Ozil, Houston Rockets basketball general manager Darryl Morey, and rugby superstar Sonny Bill Williams alongside soccer fans in regions like Morocco and Hong Kong, highlight the willingness of sports associations to sacrifice the values attributed to sports for commercial gain in their dealings with autocratic nations. They also by implication puncture the fiction of a separation of sports and politics that sports associations have long employed to justify their often-close ties to government and dealings with countries irrespective of their records in upholding basic rights. By distancing themselves from statements of Morey and Ozil, despite the latter’s ties to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, English Premier League club Arsenal and the US National Basketball Association (NBA) have served to highlight the discrepancy between sports associations’ declared principles and their policies. So has China with its penalising of the NBA and Ozil for their critical statements. The gap between professed principles and practice is, even more, yawning with the awarding of the 2021 FIFA Club World Cup to China despite Chinese president Xi Jinping’s crackdown in Xinjiang and his moves to turn the People’s Republic into a 21st-century Orwellian surveillance state. FIFA awarded the hosting rights in a consultative rather than a transparent bidding process. In a letter to Human Rights Watch, FIFA justified its decision by insisting that the Chinese football association, as well as China, had committed “To respect human rights in their activities associated with the tournament in accordance with internationally recognised human rights standards and FIFA’s own Human Rights Policy.” It was not clear how human rights associated with the Club World Cup could be separated from the overall crackdown in China. Nor was it clear why FIFA would help Xi take a step towards fulfilling his dream of China first qualifying for the World Cup, then winning the World Cup and ultimately hosting the tournament. The awarding casts doubt on FIFA’s campaign against racism in stadiums given that the crackdown in Xinjiang aims to force Turkic Muslims to violate principles of their faith and adopt Xi Jinping though as superseding Islam. The re-emergence of sports as a battleground is not limited to the plight of Xinjiang. Hong Kong fans recently took their struggle for greater democracy to a match in South Korea. Chinese and Hong Kong broadcasters refrained from showing the playing of the national anthems when China and Hong Kong played each other earlier this month in an East Asia Football Federation (EAFF) Championship match. Hong Kong fans booed China’s anthem, chanted “Liberate Hong Kong, the revolution of our times,” and displayed Hong Kong’s British-era flag. Support for national teams in autocracies like Egypt and Syria has dropped with fans demanding reforms of regime-controlled football federations that are widely viewed as corrupt, "Egypt's national team is also its national embarrassment ... Plenty of Egyptians are basking in the team's loss today," tweeted journalist Karim Zidan in July after host Egypt crashed out of the African Cup of Nations. Privately, many fans assert that the team represents the repressive regime of general-turned-president Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi rather than its historically huge fan base. Sentiments in war-torn Syria are no different. “Anyone who knows Syria well knows that in Syria there are no independent institutions, and that includes sporting institutions… Considering this (national) team as one that is above politics and a national team that unites people is a big lie and part of certain propaganda,” said Syrian journalist Hala Droubi. In Morocco, fans, dressed in black, last year booed the national anthem during a match in the northern city of Tetouan that was being broadcast live on television in protest against the killing by the Moroccan navy of a 20-year old student as she tried to illegally cross into Spain. It is a sentiment shared by anti-government protesters across the globe from Latin America to Asia. (Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Sports has emerged as battlefield for freedom of expression

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-gives-fifa-commitment-on-womens-access-to-matches-report-269399">FIFA</a> has&nbsp;banned Bahrain defender Sayed&nbsp;Baqer&nbsp;for&nbsp;10&nbsp;matches for 'discriminatory behaviour' in a World Cup qualifier against Hong Kong, soccer's world governing body has said.

Baqer, 25, was captured on video making a slant-eyed&nbsp;gesture&nbsp;in the direction of Hong Kong supporters after a goalless draw in the city on November&nbsp;14.

FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against&nbsp;Baqer&nbsp;last month and announced that the player had also been fined 30,000 Swiss francs ($30,549.90) and warned over his conduct.

The suspension follows the governing body's July announcement that it had doubled the minimum&nbsp;ban&nbsp;for&nbsp;racist&nbsp;behaviour to&nbsp;10&nbsp;games.

A number of high-profile&nbsp;racist&nbsp;incidents have marred the&nbsp;game&nbsp;this season.

The most recent involved the arrest of a Chelsea fan for allegedly racially abusing Tottenham Hotspur's South Korean forward <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mourinho-confirms-tottenham-appeal-against-wrong-red-for-son-269877">Son Heung-min</a> in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelseas-frank-lampard-savours-win-over-old-mentor-jose-mourinho-269624">Premier League</a> match in London on Sunday.

Chelsea defender <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Yes%C2%A0Bank">Antonio Rudiger</a> also alleged he was racially abused in the same&nbsp;game, prompting the Professional Footballers' Association to call for a government inquiry into the proliferation of&nbsp;racist&nbsp;incidents in English soccer.

Italy has also been front and centre this season with Inter Milan's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/were-going-backwards-says-romelu-lukaku-after-racist-abuse-at-cagliari-247197">Romelu Lukaku</a> and Brescia's Mario Balotelli being targeted by rival fans during Serie A matches.

In a separate ruling, FIFA ordered Indonesia to play one match behind closed doors without fans and fined the country's soccer association 200,000 Swiss francs over security failings during a World Cup qualifier with Malaysia last month.

Malaysia were fined 50,000 Swiss francs for the behaviour of their fans.

Sierra Leone have also been told to play one&nbsp;game&nbsp;behind closed doors and were fined 50,000 Swiss francs for a lack of order during a qualifier against Liberia in September.

FIFA has banned Bahrain defender Sayed Baqer for 10 matches for 'discriminatory behaviour' in a World Cup qualifier against Hong Kong, soccer's world governing body has said.

FIFA has banned Bahrain defender Sayed Baqer for 10 matches for 'discriminatory behaviour' in a World Cup qualifier against Hong Kong, soccer's world governing body has said. Baqer, 25, was captured on video making a slant-eyed gesture in the direction of Hong Kong supporters after a goalless draw in the city on November 14. FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Baqer last month and announced that the player had also been fined 30,000 Swiss francs ($30,549.90) and warned over his conduct. The suspension follows the governing body's July announcement that it had doubled the minimum ban for racist behaviour to 10 games. A number of high-profile racist incidents have marred the game this season. The most recent involved the arrest of a Chelsea fan for allegedly racially abusing Tottenham Hotspur's South Korean forward Son Heung-min in a Premier League match in London on Sunday. Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger also alleged he was racially abused in the same game, prompting the Professional Footballers' Association to call for a government inquiry into the proliferation of racist incidents in English soccer. Italy has also been front and centre this season with Inter Milan's Romelu Lukaku and Brescia's Mario Balotelli being targeted by rival fans during Serie A matches. In a separate ruling, FIFA ordered Indonesia to play one match behind closed doors without fans and fined the country's soccer association 200,000 Swiss francs over security failings during a World Cup qualifier with Malaysia last month. Malaysia were fined 50,000 Swiss francs for the behaviour of their fans. Sierra Leone have also been told to play one game behind closed doors and were fined 50,000 Swiss francs for a lack of order during a qualifier against Liberia in September.

Football: Bahrain's Baqer gets 10-game ban for racist gesture

Iran's Football Federation has given world governing body FIFA a written commitment that women will be allowed to attend matches in the domestic club league, a source with knowledge of the discussions said on Friday.

In October, Iranian women watched the country's national team for the first time in 40 years, when they were given access to a women's section of the stadium for the World Cup qualifier against Cambodia in Tehran.

Women had been banned from watching men’s games in Iran since shortly after the 1979 Islamic revolution with only a few exceptions made for small groups on rare occasions.

FIFA had sent a delegation to Tehran to ensure that women were allowed to attend the game against Cambodia following the death in September of Sahar Khodayari, who set herself on fire to protest against her arrest for trying to get into a match.

Dubbed "Blue Girl" online for her favourite team Esteghlal’s colours, Khodayari had feared being jailed for six months by the Islamic Revolutionary Court for trying to enter a stadium dressed as a man.

After women attended the October national team match, FIFA president Gianni Infantino had urged Iranian authorities to allow women to attend all football matches.

"FIFA now looks more than ever towards a future when ALL girls and women wishing to attend football matches in (the Islamic Republic of) Iran will be free to do so, and in a safe environment," Infantino said at the time.

Iran's Football Federation has given world governing body FIFA a written commitment that women will be allowed to attend matches in the domestic club league, a source with knowledge of the discussions said on Friday.

Iran's Football Federation has given world governing body FIFA a written commitment that women will be allowed to attend matches in the domestic club league, a source with knowledge of the discussions said on Friday. In October, Iranian women watched the country's national team for the first time in 40 years, when they were given access to a women's section of the stadium for the World Cup qualifier against Cambodia in Tehran. Women had been banned from watching men’s games in Iran since shortly after the 1979 Islamic revolution with only a few exceptions made for small groups on rare occasions. FIFA had sent a delegation to Tehran to ensure that women were allowed to attend the game against Cambodia following the death in September of Sahar Khodayari, who set herself on fire to protest against her arrest for trying to get into a match. Dubbed "Blue Girl" online for her favourite team Esteghlal’s colours, Khodayari had feared being jailed for six months by the Islamic Revolutionary Court for trying to enter a stadium dressed as a man. After women attended the October national team match, FIFA president Gianni Infantino had urged Iranian authorities to allow women to attend all football matches. "FIFA now looks more than ever towards a future when ALL girls and women wishing to attend football matches in (the Islamic Republic of) Iran will be free to do so, and in a safe environment," Infantino said at the time.

Iran gives FIFA commitment on women's access to matches: Report

The Australian women's national soccer team will earn the same match pay as their male counterparts and have an equal split of commercial revenues for the first time under a new deal, local media reported on Tuesday.

The national men's "Socceroos" team have historically been paid more than the women's "Matildas" and earned a greater share of commercial revenues.

But players had agreed in principle with governing body Football Federation Australia to strike a deal to ensure pay parity, Sydney's Daily Telegraph newspaper said.

The players' union, Professional Footballers Australia, declined to comment on the detail of the deal but confirmed all parties were working toward the goal of gender parity in pay.

A PFA spokesperson said it hoped the deal would be announced in coming days.

Pay disparity between men's and women's professional footballers has been in the spotlight since the US&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-womens-team-fights-back-against-governing-bodys-pay-claims-254494">women's team sued </a>governing body US&nbsp;Soccer in March alleging gender discrimination in earnings and working conditions.

Australia's Matildas launched a campaign to pressure global soccer governing body FIFA to provide equal prize-money at World Cups ahead of the women's tournament in France earlier this year.

The US&nbsp;women's team received $4 million for winning the World Cup in France out of the tournament's total prize-money pool of $30 million.

In the 2018 men's tournament in Russia, winners France banked $38 million from a pool of $400 million.

The Australian women's national soccer team will earn the same match pay as their male counterparts and have an equal split of commercial revenues for the first time under a new deal, local media reported on Tuesday.

The Australian women's national soccer team will earn the same match pay as their male counterparts and have an equal split of commercial revenues for the first time under a new deal, local media reported on Tuesday. The national men's "Socceroos" team have historically been paid more than the women's "Matildas" and earned a greater share of commercial revenues. But players had agreed in principle with governing body Football Federation Australia to strike a deal to ensure pay parity, Sydney's Daily Telegraph newspaper said. The players' union, Professional Footballers Australia, declined to comment on the detail of the deal but confirmed all parties were working toward the goal of gender parity in pay. A PFA spokesperson said it hoped the deal would be announced in coming days. Pay disparity between men's and women's professional footballers has been in the spotlight since the US women's team sued governing body US Soccer in March alleging gender discrimination in earnings and working conditions. Australia's Matildas launched a campaign to pressure global soccer governing body FIFA to provide equal prize-money at World Cups ahead of the women's tournament in France earlier this year. The US women's team received $4 million for winning the World Cup in France out of the tournament's total prize-money pool of $30 million. In the 2018 men's tournament in Russia, winners France banked $38 million from a pool of $400 million.

Football Federation Australia to announce gender parity pay deal: Report

Bulgaria must play their next home game behind closed doors and have been handed a fine of 75,000 euros ($83,000) after racist chanting by supporters marred their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-thrash-bulgaria-after-game-halted-over-racist-abuse-255998">Euro 2020 qualifier</a> against England earlier this month, UEFA said Tuesday.

The disciplinary arm of European football's governing body also ordered Bulgaria to play a second match behind closed doors, but that punishment is suspended for a "probationary period" of two years.

The punishment means Bulgaria will play their final European Championship qualifier at home to the Czech Republic, on November 17, in an empty stadium.

UEFA also ordered Bulgaria to display a banner with the slogan "No To Racism" at their next two home games.

The Bulgarian FA was additionally fined a further 10,000 euros for "causing a disturbance during a national anthem" prior to kick-off of the game in Sofia on October 14, which England won 6-0. The English FA was fined 5,000 euros for the same offence.

The match at the Vasil Levski Stadium was halted twice in the first half due to abuse from sections of the home support, including monkey chants and apparent Nazi salutes.

Despite the abuse, the England team opted to complete the match instead of walking off the pitch.

"We sincerely hope the disgraceful scenes in Sofia are never repeated," said England's Football Association.

"Our priority remains our players, support team and fans and we will do all we can to ensure they never have to endure such circumstances again.

"While we acknowledge UEFA's ruling today, a huge challenge still exists around racism and discrimination in society."

The game was played in a stadium already partially closed after racist incidents during matches against Kosovo and the Czech Republic in June.

"We sincerely hope that the Bulgarian football fans will prove with their behaviour that they have become targets of unwarranted accusations for lack of tolerance and respect to the opposition team," the Bulgarian Football Union said in a statement.

Piara Powar, the executive director of the Fare network which works to combat racism and discrimination in football across Europe, said the punishment was not harsh enough and felt Bulgaria should have been disqualified from the competition.

"We welcome the speed of this decision, but we are disappointed that Bulgaria will not be expelled from the Euro 2020 qualifying competition given their previous record, and obvious inability to deal with the problems they face," he said.

"We think that the evidence and circumstances of this match would have justified European football being given a stronger signal on the need to tackle racism.

"Obtaining justice for racist acts is not easy in any setting, it is clear that football is no exception."

Anti-racism campaign group Kick It Out called for UEFA regulations on racism to be "overhauled".

"We are disheartened, but not surprised, to learn of UEFA's response to the racist abuse directed at England players," it said in a statement.

"In our view, they have missed an opportunity to send an uncompromising message on racism and discrimination.

"The current sanctions, however 'tough' UEFA think they may be, are clearly not working and leave victims with little faith in their ability to prevent abusive behaviour."

The incidents caused indignation in the football world and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uefa-must-do-more-to-tackle-vile-racism-uk-pm-johnsons-spokesman-256094">were condemned</a> both by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his Bulgarian counterpart Boyko Borisov.

The subsequent fall-out led to Bulgaria coach Krasimir Balakov resigning along with the country's FA chief, Borislav Mihaylov.

In the wake of the incidents, Bulgarian police said they had identified 16 people suspected of being involved in the "abusive actions".

Bulgaria are winless in seven Euro 2020 qualifiers,&nbsp;losing four and drawing three,&nbsp;and occupy last place in Group A. They are already out of contention to qualify for next year's finals.

Before facing the Czechs, Bulgaria are due to host Paraguay in a friendly in Sofia on November 14 in what will be their first match under new coach Georgi Dermendzhiev.

&nbsp;

Bulgaria must play their next home game behind closed doors and have been handed a fine of 75,000 euros ($83,000) after racist chanting by supporters marred their Euro 2020 qualifier against England earlier this month, UEFA said Tuesday.

Bulgaria must play their next home game behind closed doors and have been handed a fine of 75,000 euros ($83,000) after racist chanting by supporters marred their Euro 2020 qualifier against England earlier this month, UEFA said Tuesday. The disciplinary arm of European football's governing body also ordered Bulgaria to play a second match behind closed doors, but that punishment is suspended for a "probationary period" of two years. The punishment means Bulgaria will play their final European Championship qualifier at home to the Czech Republic, on November 17, in an empty stadium. UEFA also ordered Bulgaria to display a banner with the slogan "No To Racism" at their next two home games. The Bulgarian FA was additionally fined a further 10,000 euros for "causing a disturbance during a national anthem" prior to kick-off of the game in Sofia on October 14, which England won 6-0. The English FA was fined 5,000 euros for the same offence. The match at the Vasil Levski Stadium was halted twice in the first half due to abuse from sections of the home support, including monkey chants and apparent Nazi salutes. Despite the abuse, the England team opted to complete the match instead of walking off the pitch. "We sincerely hope the disgraceful scenes in Sofia are never repeated," said England's Football Association. "Our priority remains our players, support team and fans and we will do all we can to ensure they never have to endure such circumstances again. "While we acknowledge UEFA's ruling today, a huge challenge still exists around racism and discrimination in society." The game was played in a stadium already partially closed after racist incidents during matches against Kosovo and the Czech Republic in June. "We sincerely hope that the Bulgarian football fans will prove with their behaviour that they have become targets of unwarranted accusations for lack of tolerance and respect to the opposition team," the Bulgarian Football Union said in a statement. Piara Powar, the executive director of the Fare network which works to combat racism and discrimination in football across Europe, said the punishment was not harsh enough and felt Bulgaria should have been disqualified from the competition. "We welcome the speed of this decision, but we are disappointed that Bulgaria will not be expelled from the Euro 2020 qualifying competition given their previous record, and obvious inability to deal with the problems they face," he said. "We think that the evidence and circumstances of this match would have justified European football being given a stronger signal on the need to tackle racism. "Obtaining justice for racist acts is not easy in any setting, it is clear that football is no exception." Anti-racism campaign group Kick It Out called for UEFA regulations on racism to be "overhauled". "We are disheartened, but not surprised, to learn of UEFA's response to the racist abuse directed at England players," it said in a statement. "In our view, they have missed an opportunity to send an uncompromising message on racism and discrimination. "The current sanctions, however 'tough' UEFA think they may be, are clearly not working and leave victims with little faith in their ability to prevent abusive behaviour." The incidents caused indignation in the football world and were condemned both by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his Bulgarian counterpart Boyko Borisov. The subsequent fall-out led to Bulgaria coach Krasimir Balakov resigning along with the country's FA chief, Borislav Mihaylov. In the wake of the incidents, Bulgarian police said they had identified 16 people suspected of being involved in the "abusive actions". Bulgaria are winless in seven Euro 2020 qualifiers, losing four and drawing three, and occupy last place in Group A. They are already out of contention to qualify for next year's finals. Before facing the Czechs, Bulgaria are due to host Paraguay in a friendly in Sofia on November 14 in what will be their first match under new coach Georgi Dermendzhiev.

Euro 2020 qualifier: Bulgaria to play game behind closed doors, fined after England racism

China will host the inaugural edition of the expanded 24-team Club World Cup, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Thursday, hailing it as a "historic decision".

FIFA's choice underlines China's growing clout in football and could be a precursor to the country eventually hosting the World Cup proper.

Infantino made the announcement after a meeting in Shanghai of the FIFA Council, the decision-making unit of football's world governing body.

It will mean many of the biggest club teams,&nbsp;including eight from Europe,&nbsp;descending on China in June-July 2021.

Infantino confirmed that China, which has made football a national priority under President Xi Jinping, had been the only candidate.

"It is a historic decision for football," he said.

"It will be a competition which every person, every child and everyone who loves football is looking forward to."

The FIFA chief said in June that his new Club World Cup could generate as much as $50 billion in commercial income, although he did not state how many editions that would cover and a source told AFP the figure was "scarcely credible".

The current Club World Cup features seven teams including the holders of the UEFA Champions League. Qatar will host the competition this year and in 2020.

The Gulf state will use the two tournaments as logistical tests for stadiums and infrastructure ahead of the 2022 edition of the World Cup, FIFA's flagship international competition.

The plan for a revamped Club World Cup,&nbsp;"a childhood dream", said Infantino -- was approved at a FIFA Council meeting in Miami in March despite opposition from UEFA and the powerful European Club Association.

It will take place every four years and replaces the Confederations Cup, an international competition that acted as a test event for countries hosting a World Cup.

FIFA also will double the funding allocated for<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-to-invest-1billion-in-womens-football-in-the-next-four-years-infantino-257832"> women's football to $1 billion</a> over the next four years after the Council rubber-stamped plans already announced by Infantino.

"The Council decided to put 500 million in addition to the 500 million already budgeted," he said.

Since the Women's World Cup in France in the summer, "women's football has moved to the next level, we need to work on that, build on that", said Infantino.

China, the world's second-biggest economy, is becoming increasingly influential in football under Xi, a known fan of the game. He and Infantino met last week.

Xi and his communist government's stated aim is for the country of 1.4 billion to host and eventually win a World Cup.

A bid for the 2030 World Cup has long been mooted.

Mark Dreyer, a Beijing-based expert on China's sports industry, said that the country has a proven track record in staging major sporting events and views a World Cup as the ultimate aim.

But Dreyer, founder of the China Sports Insider website, added: "I worry from China's perspective whether the other competing bids (for 2030) will use this (hosting the Club World Cup) against China and say they already have something from FIFA and have rewarded the country for its financial support, so give the World Cup to someone else."

Infantino largely dodged questions that could be raised over China's human rights record as a result of the Club World Cup decision.

He was also asked by AFP whether players coming to China may have to self-censor after the US National Basketball Association was hit by a Chinese backlash over comments by a Houston Rockets team executive who expressed support for Hong Kong protesters resisting Chinese control.

"Everyone can say what they want," he said.

"As far as we are concerned, we are trying to use football as a catalyst for positive, and never for negative." 
&nbsp;

China will host the inaugural edition of the expanded 24-team Club World Cup, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Thursday, hailing it as a "historic decision".

China will host the inaugural edition of the expanded 24-team Club World Cup, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Thursday, hailing it as a "historic decision". FIFA's choice underlines China's growing clout in football and could be a precursor to the country eventually hosting the World Cup proper. Infantino made the announcement after a meeting in Shanghai of the FIFA Council, the decision-making unit of football's world governing body. It will mean many of the biggest club teams, including eight from Europe, descending on China in June-July 2021. Infantino confirmed that China, which has made football a national priority under President Xi Jinping, had been the only candidate. "It is a historic decision for football," he said. "It will be a competition which every person, every child and everyone who loves football is looking forward to." The FIFA chief said in June that his new Club World Cup could generate as much as $50 billion in commercial income, although he did not state how many editions that would cover and a source told AFP the figure was "scarcely credible". The current Club World Cup features seven teams including the holders of the UEFA Champions League. Qatar will host the competition this year and in 2020. The Gulf state will use the two tournaments as logistical tests for stadiums and infrastructure ahead of the 2022 edition of the World Cup, FIFA's flagship international competition. The plan for a revamped Club World Cup, "a childhood dream", said Infantino -- was approved at a FIFA Council meeting in Miami in March despite opposition from UEFA and the powerful European Club Association. It will take place every four years and replaces the Confederations Cup, an international competition that acted as a test event for countries hosting a World Cup. FIFA also will double the funding allocated for women's football to $1 billion over the next four years after the Council rubber-stamped plans already announced by Infantino. "The Council decided to put 500 million in addition to the 500 million already budgeted," he said. Since the Women's World Cup in France in the summer, "women's football has moved to the next level, we need to work on that, build on that", said Infantino. China, the world's second-biggest economy, is becoming increasingly influential in football under Xi, a known fan of the game. He and Infantino met last week. Xi and his communist government's stated aim is for the country of 1.4 billion to host and eventually win a World Cup. A bid for the 2030 World Cup has long been mooted. Mark Dreyer, a Beijing-based expert on China's sports industry, said that the country has a proven track record in staging major sporting events and views a World Cup as the ultimate aim. But Dreyer, founder of the China Sports Insider website, added: "I worry from China's perspective whether the other competing bids (for 2030) will use this (hosting the Club World Cup) against China and say they already have something from FIFA and have rewarded the country for its financial support, so give the World Cup to someone else." Infantino largely dodged questions that could be raised over China's human rights record as a result of the Club World Cup decision. He was also asked by AFP whether players coming to China may have to self-censor after the US National Basketball Association was hit by a Chinese backlash over comments by a Houston Rockets team executive who expressed support for Hong Kong protesters resisting Chinese control. "Everyone can say what they want," he said. "As far as we are concerned, we are trying to use football as a catalyst for positive, and never for negative."

Football: China to host expanded Club World Cup in 2021

FIFA will double its funding for women's football to $1 billion over the next four years, president Gianni Infantino said on Thursday following a meeting of the world governing body's council.

"The Council decided to put 500 million in addition to the 500 million already budgeted," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/racists-must-be-kicked-out-of-stadiums-fifa-president-gianni-infantino-256771">Infantino</a> told reporters in Shanghai.

Meanwhile, FIFA has awarded the inaugural edition of its expanded 24-team Club World Cup to China, the association's president Gianni Infantino announced in Shanghai on Thursday, calling it a "historic decision".

"The FIFA Council decided today, unanimously, to appoint China... as the host of the new FIFA World Cup for Clubs," he told reporters.

FIFA will double its funding for women's football to $1 billion over the next four years, president Gianni Infantino said on Thursday following a meeting of the world governing body's council.

FIFA will double its funding for women's football to $1 billion over the next four years, president Gianni Infantino said on Thursday following a meeting of the world governing body's council. "The Council decided to put 500 million in addition to the 500 million already budgeted," Infantino told reporters in Shanghai. Meanwhile, FIFA has awarded the inaugural edition of its expanded 24-team Club World Cup to China, the association's president Gianni Infantino announced in Shanghai on Thursday, calling it a "historic decision". "The FIFA Council decided today, unanimously, to appoint China... as the host of the new FIFA World Cup for Clubs," he told reporters.

FIFA to invest $1 billion in women's football in the next four years: FIFA president Gianni Infantino

This system is common in Gulf states where large portions of the population is foreign. In Qatar it requires workers to obtain their employers' consent before changing jobs, which advocate groups say leaves them open to abuse. Qatar will abolish Kafala labour.

Qatar to abolish 'Kafala' labour

Racists must be "kicked out" of stadiums, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said Thursday as he pressed for a worldwide ban on spectators who abuse black footballers.

Speaking days after England's Euro 2020 qualifier in Bulgaria was twice stopped because of chants targeting English players, Infantino insisted the world body would punish racism.

"If there are racists that abuse footballers, we have to stop the game," he told a press conference on a visit to Dhaka.

"We cannot let the racists win. The football has to continue and we have to punish the people," Infantino said.

He added it was now easy to identify the culprits in modern stadiums with closed-circuit TV and that a "strong message" must be sent.

"They have to be taken, kicked out of the stadium, they must not be allowed to enter into football stadiums any more, and criminal proceedings should be brought against them.

"It's a crime and it should be a crime in all countries of the world to commit a racist abuse," he said.

Infantino reaffirmed that if a country bans a spectator because of racism, "FIFA will extend it worldwide because racists have no place in football in any country and no place in any football stadium or arena in any part of the world."

Six Bulgarians have been detained for abuse at Monday's Bulgaria-England game when monkey chants and apparent Nazi salutes overshadowed England's 6-0 win. Three more are being sought.

One 18-year-old was indicted on Wednesday for using Nazi salutes and four others have been fined and banned from sports events for two years.

Infantino had already condemned the incident in a statement on Tuesday, calling racism an "obnoxious disease that seems to be getting even worse in some parts of the world".

He said Thursday that on top of stadium action better education was needed.&nbsp;

"We have to educate our youth, our children and those who are a bit older as well," he said.

Infantino also said that the 2022 World Cup in Qatar "will be the very best World Cup ever" despite new controversy over the heat and empty stadiums after the world athletics championships in September saw some long-distance races badly affected.

The FIFA boss insisted that it would be cooler as the football tournament would be in November and December.

"I am sure in Qatar we will witness from a technical point of view, the very best World Cup ever." He also expressed confidence that the stadiums would be "full".

"Football is the number one sport in the world. We will fill the stadiums in Qatar and anywhere else in the World easily with the World Cup."

Racists must be "kicked out" of stadiums, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said Thursday as he pressed for a worldwide ban on spectators who abuse black footballers.

Racists must be "kicked out" of stadiums, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said Thursday as he pressed for a worldwide ban on spectators who abuse black footballers. Speaking days after England's Euro 2020 qualifier in Bulgaria was twice stopped because of chants targeting English players, Infantino insisted the world body would punish racism. "If there are racists that abuse footballers, we have to stop the game," he told a press conference on a visit to Dhaka. "We cannot let the racists win. The football has to continue and we have to punish the people," Infantino said. He added it was now easy to identify the culprits in modern stadiums with closed-circuit TV and that a "strong message" must be sent. "They have to be taken, kicked out of the stadium, they must not be allowed to enter into football stadiums any more, and criminal proceedings should be brought against them. "It's a crime and it should be a crime in all countries of the world to commit a racist abuse," he said. Infantino reaffirmed that if a country bans a spectator because of racism, "FIFA will extend it worldwide because racists have no place in football in any country and no place in any football stadium or arena in any part of the world." Six Bulgarians have been detained for abuse at Monday's Bulgaria-England game when monkey chants and apparent Nazi salutes overshadowed England's 6-0 win. Three more are being sought. One 18-year-old was indicted on Wednesday for using Nazi salutes and four others have been fined and banned from sports events for two years. Infantino had already condemned the incident in a statement on Tuesday, calling racism an "obnoxious disease that seems to be getting even worse in some parts of the world". He said Thursday that on top of stadium action better education was needed. "We have to educate our youth, our children and those who are a bit older as well," he said. Infantino also said that the 2022 World Cup in Qatar "will be the very best World Cup ever" despite new controversy over the heat and empty stadiums after the world athletics championships in September saw some long-distance races badly affected. The FIFA boss insisted that it would be cooler as the football tournament would be in November and December. "I am sure in Qatar we will witness from a technical point of view, the very best World Cup ever." He also expressed confidence that the stadiums would be "full". "Football is the number one sport in the world. We will fill the stadiums in Qatar and anywhere else in the World easily with the World Cup."

Racists must be 'kicked out' of stadiums: FIFA president Gianni Infantino

FIFA on Friday banned a former general secretary of the Afghanistan Football Federation for five years for covering up sexual abuse of female players.

Sayed Aghazada was found guilty of failing to "report and prevent" former federation president Keramuudin Karim from carrying out repeated acts of sexual assault between 2013 and 2018.

World football's governing body banned Karim for life from all football-related activity at both the national and international level in June.

"In its decision, the adjudicatory chamber ruled that Mr Aghazada was aware of this abuse and had the duty to report and prevent it according to the FIFA Code of Ethics," read a statement from FIFA's Independent Ethics Committee.

In addition to the suspension, Aghazada was fined 10,000 Swiss francs ($10,000).

FIFA's statement added: "The FIFA Ethics Committee is still looking into the allegations that have been made against other individuals in connection to the same investigation and to their positions as football officials."

Aghazada was also a member of the Asian Football Confederation's executive committee.

The AFC said in a statement it noted FIFA's ruling and would wait until the decision was "final and binding" before making any further comment.

FIFA on Friday banned a former general secretary of the Afghanistan Football Federation for five years for covering up sexual abuse of female players. Sayed Aghazada was found guilty of failing to "report and prevent" former federation president Keramuudin Karim from carrying out repeated acts of sexual assault between 2013 and 2018.

FIFA on Friday banned a former general secretary of the Afghanistan Football Federation for five years for covering up sexual abuse of female players. Sayed Aghazada was found guilty of failing to "report and prevent" former federation president Keramuudin Karim from carrying out repeated acts of sexual assault between 2013 and 2018. World football's governing body banned Karim for life from all football-related activity at both the national and international level in June. "In its decision, the adjudicatory chamber ruled that Mr Aghazada was aware of this abuse and had the duty to report and prevent it according to the FIFA Code of Ethics," read a statement from FIFA's Independent Ethics Committee. In addition to the suspension, Aghazada was fined 10,000 Swiss francs ($10,000). FIFA's statement added: "The FIFA Ethics Committee is still looking into the allegations that have been made against other individuals in connection to the same investigation and to their positions as football officials." Aghazada was also a member of the Asian Football Confederation's executive committee. The AFC said in a statement it noted FIFA's ruling and would wait until the decision was "final and binding" before making any further comment.

FIFA bans former top Afghan football official over abuse cover-up

Diego Forlan set the World Cup alight with Uruguay in 2010, winning the prestigious Golden ball award and played for the likes of Atletico Madrid, Manchester united and Inter Milan in a glittering club career. He won the European Golden Shoe twice, making him one of South American Football's most prominent exports. Forlan traveled to India as a brand ambassador for the Spanish League and spoke exclusively to Wion Sports about his favourite career memories and the prospect's of La Liga's big-three this season.

WION Sports Exclusive: Diego Forlan On His Glittering Career

For nearly 40 years, the Islamic republic has barred female spectators from entering football and other sports stadiums, with clerics arguing women must be shielded from the masculine atmosphere and sight of semi-clad men.

First time in nearly 40 years, women in Iran attend football match

The former general secretary of the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) has been banned for five years and fined after FIFA's ethics committee found him guilty of violations relating to the abuse of female players.

The world soccer body said in a statement that the investigation into Sayed Aghazada concerned complaints lodged by several female Afghan football players against former AFF president Keramuudin Karim.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-afghan-football-president-banned-for-life-225544">Karim was banned for life </a>in June.

The female players' complaints related to sexual abuse between 2013 and 2018, at a time when Aghazada was the AFF’s general secretary.

"In its decision, the adjudicatory chamber ruled that Mr Aghazada was aware of this abuse and had the duty to report and prevent it according to the FIFA Code of Ethics," FIFA said on Friday.

"Consequently, the adjudicatory chamber found that Mr Aghazada had breached ... the FIFA Code of Ethics and sanctioned him with a ban ... for five years. In addition, a fine in the amount of 10,000 Swiss francs ($10,000) has been imposed."

Aghazada was also a FIFA standing committee member and Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Executive Committee member.

The former general secretary of the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) has been banned for five years and fined after FIFA's ethics committee found him guilty of violations relating to the abuse of female players.

The former general secretary of the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) has been banned for five years and fined after FIFA's ethics committee found him guilty of violations relating to the abuse of female players. The world soccer body said in a statement that the investigation into Sayed Aghazada concerned complaints lodged by several female Afghan football players against former AFF president Keramuudin Karim. Karim was banned for life in June. The female players' complaints related to sexual abuse between 2013 and 2018, at a time when Aghazada was the AFF’s general secretary. "In its decision, the adjudicatory chamber ruled that Mr Aghazada was aware of this abuse and had the duty to report and prevent it according to the FIFA Code of Ethics," FIFA said on Friday. "Consequently, the adjudicatory chamber found that Mr Aghazada had breached ... the FIFA Code of Ethics and sanctioned him with a ban ... for five years. In addition, a fine in the amount of 10,000 Swiss francs ($10,000) has been imposed." Aghazada was also a FIFA standing committee member and Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Executive Committee member.

FIFA bans former Afghan General Secretary in sexual abuse enquiry

Real Madrid's&nbsp;Gareth&nbsp;Bale&nbsp;said anger over his treatment and media speculation about his future at the Spanish club had not distracted him from giving his best on the pitch.

The 30-year-old forward was involved in a t<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zinedine-zidane-a-disgrace-over-gareth-bale-exit-comments-agent-237496">ense stand-off with coach Zinedine Zidane in the off-season</a>, with the Frenchman stating he was keen for&nbsp;Bale&nbsp;to leave, although a reported move to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-block-gareth-bale-china-move-source-239047"> Chinese club Jiangsu Suning in July was scrapped.</a>

Bale&nbsp;has since forced his way back into Zidane's plans and helped Real go to the top of the league - scoring two goals and providing two assists in six matches - but reports continue to link the Welshman with a move away from Santiago Bernabeu.

"You play with a lot of emotion, and anger comes into it, but I'm just trying to play football, enjoy it as much as I can and give my best,"&nbsp;Bale&nbsp;told reporters ahead of Wales' Euro 2020 qualifier in Slovakia on Thursday.

"Whenever I step onto the pitch I give 100 per cent&nbsp;to help the team ... I love meeting up with Wales. I haven't got anything to clear my mind about."

Wales manager Ryan Giggs suggested&nbsp;Bale's situation at the club had improved.

"It would have unsettled him because it was apparently very close for him going," Giggs said.

"Things do change quickly in football and now he's playing, he's loved, he's happy, and I expect him to carry on doing what he's doing for Real."

Wales are fourth in Group E with six points, but have a game in hand over leaders Croatia (10 points), Slovakia and Hungary (nine points each).

Real Madrid's Gareth Bale said anger over his treatment and media speculation about his future at the Spanish club had not distracted him from giving his best on the pitch.

Real Madrid's Gareth Bale said anger over his treatment and media speculation about his future at the Spanish club had not distracted him from giving his best on the pitch. The 30-year-old forward was involved in a tense stand-off with coach Zinedine Zidane in the off-season, with the Frenchman stating he was keen for Bale to leave, although a reported move to Chinese club Jiangsu Suning in July was scrapped. Bale has since forced his way back into Zidane's plans and helped Real go to the top of the league - scoring two goals and providing two assists in six matches - but reports continue to link the Welshman with a move away from Santiago Bernabeu. "You play with a lot of emotion, and anger comes into it, but I'm just trying to play football, enjoy it as much as I can and give my best," Bale told reporters ahead of Wales' Euro 2020 qualifier in Slovakia on Thursday. "Whenever I step onto the pitch I give 100 per cent to help the team ... I love meeting up with Wales. I haven't got anything to clear my mind about." Wales manager Ryan Giggs suggested Bale's situation at the club had improved. "It would have unsettled him because it was apparently very close for him going," Giggs said. "Things do change quickly in football and now he's playing, he's loved, he's happy, and I expect him to carry on doing what he's doing for Real." Wales are fourth in Group E with six points, but have a game in hand over leaders Croatia (10 points), Slovakia and Hungary (nine points each).

I play with a lot of emotion and anger comes into it: Real Madrid's Gareth Bale

American&nbsp;forward&nbsp;Jozy&nbsp;Altidore&nbsp;will miss the first two&nbsp;matches&nbsp;of the CONCACAF&nbsp;Nations&nbsp;League&nbsp;after suffering an injury during the Major&nbsp;League&nbsp;Soccer regular-season finale, the US&nbsp;men's national team said on Tuesday.

Altidore&nbsp;was substituted in Toronto FC's match against Columbus&nbsp;Crew on Sunday in the 70th minute after landing awkwardly following a challenge from Jonathan Mensah.

While the extent of the injury is unknown, the US&nbsp;team said in a statement that&nbsp;Altidore&nbsp;would not play on Friday in Washington against Cuba or on Oct. 15 in Toronto against Canada.

US&nbsp;Soccer also confirmed that a replacement would not be called up.

The competition, which is similar to that started by UEFA in 2018 with the aim of cutting down on meaningless friendlies, is part of a broad makeover by a confederation seeking to win back the confidence of fans after it was ravaged by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-uefa-chief-michel-platini-arrested-in-2022-qatar-world-cup-probe-228291">FIFA corruption scandal</a>.

The group&nbsp;matches&nbsp;will wrap up in six weeks with the finals taking place in June.

American forward Jozy Altidore will miss the first two matches of the CONCACAF Nations League after suffering an injury during the Major League Soccer regular-season finale, the US men's national team said on Tuesday.

American forward Jozy Altidore will miss the first two matches of the CONCACAF Nations League after suffering an injury during the Major League Soccer regular-season finale, the US men's national team said on Tuesday. Altidore was substituted in Toronto FC's match against Columbus Crew on Sunday in the 70th minute after landing awkwardly following a challenge from Jonathan Mensah. While the extent of the injury is unknown, the US team said in a statement that Altidore would not play on Friday in Washington against Cuba or on Oct. 15 in Toronto against Canada. US Soccer also confirmed that a replacement would not be called up. The competition, which is similar to that started by UEFA in 2018 with the aim of cutting down on meaningless friendlies, is part of a broad makeover by a confederation seeking to win back the confidence of fans after it was ravaged by the FIFA corruption scandal. The group matches will wrap up in six weeks with the finals taking place in June.

US forward Altidore ruled out of Nations League

Iranian women fans are free to enter a football stadium Thursday for the first time in decades, after FIFA threatened to suspend the Islamic republic over its controversial male-only policy.

Iran has barred female spectators from football and other stadiums for around 40 years, with clerics arguing they must be shielded from the masculine atmosphere and sight of semi-clad men.

World football's governing body FIFA last month ordered Iran to allow women access to stadiums without restrictions and in numbers determined by the demand for tickets.

The directive came after a fan dubbed "Blue Girl" died after setting herself on fire in fear of being jailed for dressing up as a boy in order to attend a match.

Women were quick to get their hands on tickets to attend Iran's 2022 World Cup qualifier against Cambodia at Tehran's Azadi Stadium on Thursday.

The first batch sold out in under an hour, and additional seats were also snapped up in short order, state media said.

A sports ministry official said the 100,000-capacity stadium -- whose name means "Freedom" in Farsi -- was ready to host even more women.

One of the 3,500 women to have secured a ticket was Raha Poorbakhsh, a football journalist.

"I still can't believe this is going to happen because after all these years of working in this field, watching everything on television, now I can experience everything in person," she told AFP.

'Blue girl'

But Poorbakhsh said she was aware of many other women without tickets and some were expected to travel from as far away as Ahvaz in southern Iran in the hope of still getting one.

Those lucky enough to attend will be segregated from men and watched over by 150 female police officers, according to Fars news agency.

People on the streets of Tehran said they supported the decision to allow women into stadiums.

"I would like there to be freedom for women, like men, to go freely and even sit side by side without any restrictions, like other countries," said a woman who only gave her name as Hasti.

Nader Fathi, who runs a clothing business, said the presence of women could improve the atmosphere in stadiums.

But he said "they will regret it" if they are exposed to "really bad swear words" and "bad behaviour".

The bumpy road Iranian women have travelled in order to gain free access to stadiums has not been without tragedy.

Sahar Khodayari died last month after setting herself ablaze outside a court in fear of being jailed for attending a match.

Dubbed "blue girl" because of the colours of the club she supported, Esteghlal FC, she had reportedly been detained last year when trying to enter a stadium dressed as a boy.

Her death sparked an outcry, with many calling on FIFA to ban Iran and for fans to boycott matches.

Judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Esmaili at the time dismissed reports she had been told she would be jailed for six months as "fabricated rumours and hearsay".

And Khodayari's father told Mehr news agency that she did not "sacrifice" herself for any cause.

Shadow of FIFA

Ahead of Qatar 2022, Iran has come under pressure from FIFA to allow women to attend this round of World Cup qualifiers.

The ban on women in stadiums is not written into law or regulations, but it has been strictly enforced.

Since the 1979 Islamic revolution, women have only had rare access to stadiums in Iran.

About 20 Irish women attended a World Cup qualifier in 2001, and four years later a few dozen Iranian women were allowed to watch the national "Team Melli" take on Bahrain.

In October, as many as 100 Iranian "handpicked" women entered Azadi for a friendly against Bolivia.

But the day after, the prosecutor general warned there would be no repeat, saying it would "lead to sin".

The issue has been divisive in Iran.

The reformist camp has welcomed the decision to allow women into Thursday's match, while conservatives have argued that football is not a priority for women.

The Donya-e-Eqtesad financial newspaper called it "a step to weaken a taboo and also free Iran's football of the looming shadow of FIFA's punishment".

But the ultra-conservative Keyhan daily said women were more concerned about economic issues.

"There are many girls still single and at home, afraid of the cost of marriage. The government should be thinking of this, not sending them to stadiums," it quoted a mother as saying.

Iranian women fans are free to enter a football stadium Thursday for the first time in decades, after FIFA threatened to suspend the Islamic republic over its controversial male-only policy.

Iranian women fans are free to enter a football stadium Thursday for the first time in decades, after FIFA threatened to suspend the Islamic republic over its controversial male-only policy. Iran has barred female spectators from football and other stadiums for around 40 years, with clerics arguing they must be shielded from the masculine atmosphere and sight of semi-clad men. World football's governing body FIFA last month ordered Iran to allow women access to stadiums without restrictions and in numbers determined by the demand for tickets. The directive came after a fan dubbed "Blue Girl" died after setting herself on fire in fear of being jailed for dressing up as a boy in order to attend a match. Women were quick to get their hands on tickets to attend Iran's 2022 World Cup qualifier against Cambodia at Tehran's Azadi Stadium on Thursday. The first batch sold out in under an hour, and additional seats were also snapped up in short order, state media said. A sports ministry official said the 100,000-capacity stadium -- whose name means "Freedom" in Farsi -- was ready to host even more women. One of the 3,500 women to have secured a ticket was Raha Poorbakhsh, a football journalist. "I still can't believe this is going to happen because after all these years of working in this field, watching everything on television, now I can experience everything in person," she told AFP. 'Blue girl' But Poorbakhsh said she was aware of many other women without tickets and some were expected to travel from as far away as Ahvaz in southern Iran in the hope of still getting one. Those lucky enough to attend will be segregated from men and watched over by 150 female police officers, according to Fars news agency. People on the streets of Tehran said they supported the decision to allow women into stadiums. "I would like there to be freedom for women, like men, to go freely and even sit side by side without any restrictions, like other countries," said a woman who only gave her name as Hasti. Nader Fathi, who runs a clothing business, said the presence of women could improve the atmosphere in stadiums. But he said "they will regret it" if they are exposed to "really bad swear words" and "bad behaviour". The bumpy road Iranian women have travelled in order to gain free access to stadiums has not been without tragedy. Sahar Khodayari died last month after setting herself ablaze outside a court in fear of being jailed for attending a match. Dubbed "blue girl" because of the colours of the club she supported, Esteghlal FC, she had reportedly been detained last year when trying to enter a stadium dressed as a boy. Her death sparked an outcry, with many calling on FIFA to ban Iran and for fans to boycott matches. Judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Esmaili at the time dismissed reports she had been told she would be jailed for six months as "fabricated rumours and hearsay". And Khodayari's father told Mehr news agency that she did not "sacrifice" herself for any cause. Shadow of FIFA Ahead of Qatar 2022, Iran has come under pressure from FIFA to allow women to attend this round of World Cup qualifiers. The ban on women in stadiums is not written into law or regulations, but it has been strictly enforced. Since the 1979 Islamic revolution, women have only had rare access to stadiums in Iran. About 20 Irish women attended a World Cup qualifier in 2001, and four years later a few dozen Iranian women were allowed to watch the national "Team Melli" take on Bahrain. In October, as many as 100 Iranian "handpicked" women entered Azadi for a friendly against Bolivia. But the day after, the prosecutor general warned there would be no repeat, saying it would "lead to sin". The issue has been divisive in Iran. The reformist camp has welcomed the decision to allow women into Thursday's match, while conservatives have argued that football is not a priority for women. The Donya-e-Eqtesad financial newspaper called it "a step to weaken a taboo and also free Iran's football of the looming shadow of FIFA's punishment". But the ultra-conservative Keyhan daily said women were more concerned about economic issues. "There are many girls still single and at home, afraid of the cost of marriage. The government should be thinking of this, not sending them to stadiums," it quoted a mother as saying.

Iran women to see football freely for first time in decades

List of winners at FIFA's The Best Awards

Lionel Messi won the FIFA Men's Player of the Year award on Monday with Megan Rapinoe bagging the women's prize to cap a historic year for the United States' World Cup icon.

Barcelona striker Messi's victory in Milan was a surprise as he edged out Virgil Van Dijk, who won the UEFA player's award last month after helping Liverpool to the Champions League last season.

Juventus's forward Cristiano Ronaldo had also been shortlisted for the award but did not attend the ceremony as he lost out to his rival in the famous La Scala opera house.

Both Messi, 32, and Van Dijk, 28, are now in the running for the coveted Ballon d'Or which will be announced on December 2.

Rapinoe beat fellow World Cup winner Alex Morgan and England's Lucy Bronze to the women's title, with US coach Jill Ellis winning women's coaching award.

The 34-year-old Rapinoe won the Golden Boot for being top scorer and the Golden Ball for the best player at the World Cup, and also became the face of the tournament for her outspoken views on US President Donald Trump.

Messi was top scorer in the Champions League last season with 12 goals before Barcelona were dumped out by Liverpool in the semi-finals, Barca throwing away a three-goal first-leg lead with a humiliating 4-0 defeat at Anfield.

The Argentine also won the European Golden Shoe after scoring 36 goals, won La Liga title with Barcelona and helped Argentina to bronze at 2019 Copa America.

Van Dijk had been bidding to become just the second defender -- after Italian Fabio Cannavaro in 2006 -- to be recognised by FIFA as the world's best player.

And he missed out on completing a treble for Liverpool with manager Jurgen Klopp winning the men's coach of the year award and Alisson Becker the goalkeeper prize.

Klopp won the Champions League with Liverpool ahead of two other Premier League coaches -- Tottenham's Mauricio Pochettino, who reached the European final, and Manchester City's Pep Guardiola.

"It is great, nobody expected this 20, 10, five, four years ago that I would be standing here," said the 52-year-old German who joined Liverpool in 2015.

"I have to say thank you to my outstanding club Liverpool FC. Those who don't love it don't have a heart.

"As a coach you can only be as good as your team. I'm really proud of being coach of such an incredible bunch of players."

Two-time women's World Cup-winning coach Ellis, beat Dutch coach Sarina Wiegman, runner-up in France 2019, and England's Phil Neville for the award.

"The World Cup really was a showcase, the world fell even more in love with the game," said 53-year-old Ellis, who will step down from the team in October.

Romanian-born Hungarian forward Daniel Zsori won the Fifa Puskas Award for the best goal, beating strikes from Messi and Juan Fernando Quintero.

The 18-year-old forward, on his debut, scored a spectacular overhead kick to win the game for his side Debrecen against Ferencvaros in stoppage time.

Lionel Messi won the FIFA Men's Player of the Year award on Monday with Megan Rapinoe bagging the women's prize to cap a historic year for the United States' World Cup icon.

Lionel Messi won the FIFA Men's Player of the Year award on Monday with Megan Rapinoe bagging the women's prize to cap a historic year for the United States' World Cup icon. Barcelona striker Messi's victory in Milan was a surprise as he edged out Virgil Van Dijk, who won the UEFA player's award last month after helping Liverpool to the Champions League last season. Juventus's forward Cristiano Ronaldo had also been shortlisted for the award but did not attend the ceremony as he lost out to his rival in the famous La Scala opera house. Both Messi, 32, and Van Dijk, 28, are now in the running for the coveted Ballon d'Or which will be announced on December 2. Rapinoe beat fellow World Cup winner Alex Morgan and England's Lucy Bronze to the women's title, with US coach Jill Ellis winning women's coaching award. The 34-year-old Rapinoe won the Golden Boot for being top scorer and the Golden Ball for the best player at the World Cup, and also became the face of the tournament for her outspoken views on US President Donald Trump. Messi was top scorer in the Champions League last season with 12 goals before Barcelona were dumped out by Liverpool in the semi-finals, Barca throwing away a three-goal first-leg lead with a humiliating 4-0 defeat at Anfield. The Argentine also won the European Golden Shoe after scoring 36 goals, won La Liga title with Barcelona and helped Argentina to bronze at 2019 Copa America. Van Dijk had been bidding to become just the second defender -- after Italian Fabio Cannavaro in 2006 -- to be recognised by FIFA as the world's best player. And he missed out on completing a treble for Liverpool with manager Jurgen Klopp winning the men's coach of the year award and Alisson Becker the goalkeeper prize. Klopp won the Champions League with Liverpool ahead of two other Premier League coaches -- Tottenham's Mauricio Pochettino, who reached the European final, and Manchester City's Pep Guardiola. "It is great, nobody expected this 20, 10, five, four years ago that I would be standing here," said the 52-year-old German who joined Liverpool in 2015. "I have to say thank you to my outstanding club Liverpool FC. Those who don't love it don't have a heart. "As a coach you can only be as good as your team. I'm really proud of being coach of such an incredible bunch of players." Two-time women's World Cup-winning coach Ellis, beat Dutch coach Sarina Wiegman, runner-up in France 2019, and England's Phil Neville for the award. "The World Cup really was a showcase, the world fell even more in love with the game," said 53-year-old Ellis, who will step down from the team in October. Romanian-born Hungarian forward Daniel Zsori won the Fifa Puskas Award for the best goal, beating strikes from Messi and Juan Fernando Quintero. The 18-year-old forward, on his debut, scored a spectacular overhead kick to win the game for his side Debrecen against Ferencvaros in stoppage time.

Messi, Rapinoe win FIFA Player of the Year awards

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has urged Italian soccer authorities to hand out stadium bans for supporters guilty of racism after another incident in a Serie A match between Atalanta and Fiorentina on Sunday.

Play was briefly suspended after Fiore’s Brazilian wing-back Dalbert reportedly told referee Daniele Orsato he had been the target of racist abuse from fans at the Stadio Ennio Tardini in Parma, where Atalanta are based while their ground is revamped.

An announcement was read over the stadium loudspeaker urging supporters to stop and the game, which finished 2-2, then continued, but Infantino believes the problem must be taken more seriously.

"Racism is combatted with education, condemnation and discussion," said the FIFA chief, who was a guest on a programme aired by Italian state broadcaster Rai.

"You can't have racism in society or in football. In Italy the situation hasn’t improved and this is serious.

“You need to identify those responsible and throw them out of the stadiums. You need, as in England, the certainty of the penalty. You can't be afraid to condemn racists, we need to combat them until they stop."

On Tuesday, Cagliari escaped punishment for alleged racist behaviour by their fans after monkey noises were heard being aimed at Inter Milan's Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has urged Italian soccer authorities to hand out stadium bans for supporters guilty of racism after another incident in a Serie A match between Atalanta and Fiorentina on Sunday.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has urged Italian soccer authorities to hand out stadium bans for supporters guilty of racism after another incident in a Serie A match between Atalanta and Fiorentina on Sunday. Play was briefly suspended after Fiore’s Brazilian wing-back Dalbert reportedly told referee Daniele Orsato he had been the target of racist abuse from fans at the Stadio Ennio Tardini in Parma, where Atalanta are based while their ground is revamped. An announcement was read over the stadium loudspeaker urging supporters to stop and the game, which finished 2-2, then continued, but Infantino believes the problem must be taken more seriously. "Racism is combatted with education, condemnation and discussion," said the FIFA chief, who was a guest on a programme aired by Italian state broadcaster Rai. "You can't have racism in society or in football. In Italy the situation hasn’t improved and this is serious. “You need to identify those responsible and throw them out of the stadiums. You need, as in England, the certainty of the penalty. You can't be afraid to condemn racists, we need to combat them until they stop." On Tuesday, Cagliari escaped punishment for alleged racist behaviour by their fans after monkey noises were heard being aimed at Inter Milan's Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku.

Time to punish racists, FIFA chief tells Italian football authorities

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has told Iran it is time to allow women into football stadiums and the global soccer body expects "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fifa-officials-to-visit-iran-after-death-of-blue-girl-249729">positive developments</a>", starting with their next home match in October.

While foreign women have been allowed limited access to matches, Iranian women have been banned from stadiums when men’s teams have been playing, since just after the 1979 Islamic revolution.

Infantino said in a FIFA statement he was hopeful that the Iranian football federation and government authorities had been receptive to "our repeated calls to address this unacceptable situation."

He added, "Our position is clear and firm. Women have to be allowed into football stadiums in Iran. Now is the moment to change things and FIFA is expecting positive developments starting in the next Iran home match in October."

Iran, who have qualified for five World Cup finals, including each of the last two, host Cambodia on Oct. 10 in their first home game of the 2022 qualifying competition.

This month, a female fan died after setting herself on fire to protest against her arrest for attending a match.

Sahar Khodayari, dubbed "Blue Girl" for the colours of her favourite team Esteghlal, died in hospital after her self-immolation outside a court where she feared being jailed for six months, having attended the match in disguise as a man.

Khodayari's death has caused widespread outrage in Iran and internationally, prompting calls on social media for Iran’s football federation to be suspended or banned by FIFA.

Critics say FIFA's own statutes hold discrimination on grounds of gender punishable by suspension or expulsion.

There were signs the situation regarding female fans in Iran was changing when a group of women was permitted to attend the second leg of the Asian Champions League final in Tehran last November, a match where Infantino was present.

Female fans, however, have been denied access to matches since. At Iran’s friendly against Syria in June, women were locked out of the Azadi Stadium and detained by security forces.

Infantino said a FIFA delegation was now in Iran. "I am looking forward to hearing good news from them," he said.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has told Iran it is time to allow women into football stadiums and the global soccer body expects "positive developments", starting with their next home match in October.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has told Iran it is time to allow women into football stadiums and the global soccer body expects "positive developments", starting with their next home match in October. While foreign women have been allowed limited access to matches, Iranian women have been banned from stadiums when men’s teams have been playing, since just after the 1979 Islamic revolution. Infantino said in a FIFA statement he was hopeful that the Iranian football federation and government authorities had been receptive to "our repeated calls to address this unacceptable situation." He added, "Our position is clear and firm. Women have to be allowed into football stadiums in Iran. Now is the moment to change things and FIFA is expecting positive developments starting in the next Iran home match in October." Iran, who have qualified for five World Cup finals, including each of the last two, host Cambodia on Oct. 10 in their first home game of the 2022 qualifying competition. This month, a female fan died after setting herself on fire to protest against her arrest for attending a match. Sahar Khodayari, dubbed "Blue Girl" for the colours of her favourite team Esteghlal, died in hospital after her self-immolation outside a court where she feared being jailed for six months, having attended the match in disguise as a man. Khodayari's death has caused widespread outrage in Iran and internationally, prompting calls on social media for Iran’s football federation to be suspended or banned by FIFA. Critics say FIFA's own statutes hold discrimination on grounds of gender punishable by suspension or expulsion. There were signs the situation regarding female fans in Iran was changing when a group of women was permitted to attend the second leg of the Asian Champions League final in Tehran last November, a match where Infantino was present. Female fans, however, have been denied access to matches since. At Iran’s friendly against Syria in June, women were locked out of the Azadi Stadium and detained by security forces. Infantino said a FIFA delegation was now in Iran. "I am looking forward to hearing good news from them," he said.

'Women have to be allowed into football stadiums,' FIFA tells Iran

FIFA officials will visit Iran, following the death of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blue-girl-football-fan-admitted-mistake-and-expressed-regret-iran-249651">female fan</a> who set herself on fire in protest at her arrest for attending a match, world soccer's governing body told Reuters on Wednesday.

Sahar Khodayari, dubbed “<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/death-of-female-iranian-football-fan-puts-fifa-and-asian-soccer-body-in-dock-249419">Blue Girl</a>” due to her favourite team Esteghlal’s colours, died in hospital on Monday after her self-immolation outside a court where she feared being jailed for six months having attended the match in disguise as a man.

While foreign women have been allowed limited access to matches, Iranian women have been banned from stadiums when men's teams have been playing since just after the 1979 Islamic revolution.

A FIFA spokesman said that meetings with Iranian soccer officials, expected inside the next two weeks, were part of preparations for Iran's World Cup qualifying games -- they face Cambodia at home on October&nbsp;10 -- and were not a specific response to Khodayari's death.

The FIFA officials, however, will check the preparations made by the Iranian FA to provide access to that October&nbsp;10 match for women.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has previously urged Iranian authorities to take "concrete steps" to allow Iranian and foreign women to buy tickets and attend games.

The death of Khodayari has caused widespread outrage in Iran and internationally and there have been calls on social media for Iran's football federation to be suspended or banned by FIFA.

Popular Iranian exile musician Arash Sobhani, of the group Kiosk, was among those who took to social media to protest and told Reuters that Infantino needed to take action.

"He needs to step up and do what is right. Ban the Iranian federation until they allow all the Iranian women to go to the stadium. They should be just as equal as the men," he said.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, FIFA expressed its condolences and said it reiterated "our calls on the Iranian authorities to ensure the freedom and safety of any women engaged in this legitimate fight to end the stadium ban for women in Iran."

"Foul language"

Jesper Moller, president of the Danish Football Union, and a member of FIFA's organising committee for competitions, told Danish newspaper Politiken that he expects action from the governing body.

"FIFA has an independent disciplinary system and they will look at it. I will let them. And once they have given a verdict, it may well be that the case ends up with the international sports court, CAS. But that it (the stadium ban) must be punished is clear,” said Moller, who is also a member of European governing body UEFA's executive committee.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's chief of staff said on Wednesday that women would be allowed into stadiums if foul language in chants and sporadic violence was curbed. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

"We don’t see a problem with women attending if the atmosphere in stadiums is convenient... but with so much foul language among fans and violence, this is not advisable," Mahmoud Vaezi told state television.

He said the sports minister would contact leaders of supporter groups to "improve the atmosphere from a moral standpoint" and special areas for women would be set up in stadiums.

"If there is a well-mannered atmosphere in stadiums, we have no objection to (the admission of women)," Vaezi told reporters after a cabinet meeting.

Iran's national team won a World Cup qualifier in Hong Kong 2-0 on Tuesday.

Captain Masoud Shojaei issued a statement on Instagram, describing the match as "the most bitter and saddest win of the national team."

"We scored two goals and won the game on the field. But we lost because Sahar is no longer," he wrote.

"Shame on me for not having been able to do anything and shame on those who took away the most obvious right from Sahar and all Sahars."

"Equality is a lie"

Former Australia captain and human rights activist Craig Foster told Reuters that FIFA needed to enforce its own rules.

"The FIFA statutes say that discrimination on grounds of gender is punishable by suspension or expulsion," he said.

"If the statutes are not worth upholding, then withdraw them and let football be honest to the women of Iran. Because at the moment, despite the promise, equality is a lie," he added.

There were signs that the situation regarding female fans in Iran was changing when a group of women were permitted to attend the second leg of the Asian Champions League final in Tehran last November.

Infantino was present at the Azadi Stadium when Persepolis played Japan's Kashima Antlers in front more than 1,000 female fans in a designated "family section".

That came after concerted efforts from pressure groups both inside and outside Iran, who were backed by senior players and former national team coach Carlos Queiroz.

It was hoped the breakthrough, which came after Infantino discussed the issue with Rouhani, would lead to further concessions on the issue in the conservative Islamic nation.

Female fans, however, have been denied access to matches since. At Iran's friendly against Syria in June, women were locked out of the Azadi Stadium and detained by security forces.

 
&nbsp;

FIFA officials will visit Iran, following the death of a female fan who set herself on fire in protest at her arrest for attending a match, world soccer's governing body told Reuters on Wednesday.

FIFA officials will visit Iran, following the death of a female fan who set herself on fire in protest at her arrest for attending a match, world soccer's governing body told Reuters on Wednesday. Sahar Khodayari, dubbed “Blue Girl” due to her favourite team Esteghlal’s colours, died in hospital on Monday after her self-immolation outside a court where she feared being jailed for six months having attended the match in disguise as a man. While foreign women have been allowed limited access to matches, Iranian women have been banned from stadiums when men's teams have been playing since just after the 1979 Islamic revolution. A FIFA spokesman said that meetings with Iranian soccer officials, expected inside the next two weeks, were part of preparations for Iran's World Cup qualifying games -- they face Cambodia at home on October 10 -- and were not a specific response to Khodayari's death. The FIFA officials, however, will check the preparations made by the Iranian FA to provide access to that October 10 match for women. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has previously urged Iranian authorities to take "concrete steps" to allow Iranian and foreign women to buy tickets and attend games. The death of Khodayari has caused widespread outrage in Iran and internationally and there have been calls on social media for Iran's football federation to be suspended or banned by FIFA. Popular Iranian exile musician Arash Sobhani, of the group Kiosk, was among those who took to social media to protest and told Reuters that Infantino needed to take action. "He needs to step up and do what is right. Ban the Iranian federation until they allow all the Iranian women to go to the stadium. They should be just as equal as the men," he said. In a statement issued on Tuesday, FIFA expressed its condolences and said it reiterated "our calls on the Iranian authorities to ensure the freedom and safety of any women engaged in this legitimate fight to end the stadium ban for women in Iran." "Foul language" Jesper Moller, president of the Danish Football Union, and a member of FIFA's organising committee for competitions, told Danish newspaper Politiken that he expects action from the governing body. "FIFA has an independent disciplinary system and they will look at it. I will let them. And once they have given a verdict, it may well be that the case ends up with the international sports court, CAS. But that it (the stadium ban) must be punished is clear,” said Moller, who is also a member of European governing body UEFA's executive committee. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's chief of staff said on Wednesday that women would be allowed into stadiums if foul language in chants and sporadic violence was curbed. "We don’t see a problem with women attending if the atmosphere in stadiums is convenient... but with so much foul language among fans and violence, this is not advisable," Mahmoud Vaezi told state television. He said the sports minister would contact leaders of supporter groups to "improve the atmosphere from a moral standpoint" and special areas for women would be set up in stadiums. "If there is a well-mannered atmosphere in stadiums, we have no objection to (the admission of women)," Vaezi told reporters after a cabinet meeting. Iran's national team won a World Cup qualifier in Hong Kong 2-0 on Tuesday. Captain Masoud Shojaei issued a statement on Instagram, describing the match as "the most bitter and saddest win of the national team." "We scored two goals and won the game on the field. But we lost because Sahar is no longer," he wrote. "Shame on me for not having been able to do anything and shame on those who took away the most obvious right from Sahar and all Sahars." "Equality is a lie" Former Australia captain and human rights activist Craig Foster told Reuters that FIFA needed to enforce its own rules. "The FIFA statutes say that discrimination on grounds of gender is punishable by suspension or expulsion," he said. "If the statutes are not worth upholding, then withdraw them and let football be honest to the women of Iran. Because at the moment, despite the promise, equality is a lie," he added. There were signs that the situation regarding female fans in Iran was changing when a group of women were permitted to attend the second leg of the Asian Champions League final in Tehran last November. Infantino was present at the Azadi Stadium when Persepolis played Japan's Kashima Antlers in front more than 1,000 female fans in a designated "family section". That came after concerted efforts from pressure groups both inside and outside Iran, who were backed by senior players and former national team coach Carlos Queiroz. It was hoped the breakthrough, which came after Infantino discussed the issue with Rouhani, would lead to further concessions on the issue in the conservative Islamic nation. Female fans, however, have been denied access to matches since. At Iran's friendly against Syria in June, women were locked out of the Azadi Stadium and detained by security forces.

FIFA officials to visit Iran after death of 'Blue Girl'

When Sahar Khodayari this week set herself alight in front of a Tehran courthouse, she indicted world soccer body FIFA, its Asian regional group, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and their Presidents, Gianni Infantino and Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa.

Infantino and Al Khalifa have been selective in their support for women’s soccer rights.

Infantino was in the White House to urge US President Donald J Trump to endorse equal pay for male and female players on the same day that FIFA expressed regret at the death of Khodayarí, but did nothing to force Iran to lift its ban on women attending male sporting events.

The statement called on Iranian authorities “To ensure the freedom and safety of any woman engaged in this legitimate fight to end the stadium ban for women in Iran” but failed to exert a price for continued maintenance of the ban.

Dubbed Blue Girl, a reference to the colour of her favourite, storied Tehran soccer team, Esteghlal FC, Khodayari, put herself on fire after hearing by-standers speculate that the Revolutionary Court could that day sentence her to two years in prison for "Openly committing a sinful act by appearing in public without hijab" and "insulting officials."

Khodayari was charged after being stopped by security in March as she sought to enter Tehran’s Azadi Stadium dressed as a man to watch Esteghlal play an AFC Asian Cup match against the United Arab Emirates’ Al Ain FC.

Khodayari’s disguise is standard practice for activist female soccer fans in a football-crazy country that has the questionable honour of being the world’s only nation to bar women from attending male sporting events.

Saudi Arabia, the only other country that long maintained a similar ban, abolished the restriction in 2017 as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s social reforms.

In a wave of outrage on Twitter under the hashtag #Blue_Girl, Iranian deputy telecommunications minister Amir Nazemi thundered: "The death of #blue_girl is a conviction for all of us."

Mulanim, another tweeter, went a step further, pointing fingers at FIFA. “Sahar Khodayari burnt herself to death in protest. When would you actually do something? @FIFAcom #fifawwc,” she tweeted.

Taken together, the two tweets put the responsibility on the Iranian government for its discrimination of women and on global and regional soccer governors for allowing Iran to get away with it.

FIFA announced this week that it was sending a delegation to Iran to monitor Iranian moves to allow women to attend World Cup qualifying matches.

The problem is that FIFA has exerted punitive pressure only regarding World Cup matches rather than threatening to ban Iran from all international soccer events if it fails to completely lift the ban.

FIFA’s push on World Cup matches could open the door to a complete lifting of the ban. Past experience, however, suggests that Iran could well treat granting women fans access to World Cup matches as an exception that confirms the rule.

FIFA and the AFC are missing an opportunity to potentially force Iran to lift the ban given that barring Iranian participation in international tournaments would add to the government’s woes at a time that it is struggling to dampen the impact of harsh US economic sanctions designed to persuade Iran to renegotiate the 2015 agreement that curbed the Islamic republic’s nuclear programme.

The sanctions were imposed last year after Trump withdrew from the agreement.

Speaking to reporters, government spokesman Ali Rabiei suggested that a threat by FIFA to exclude Iran from international matches could push the country’s rulers over the hump.

“The government’s general view is to allow women to enter football stadiums, and infrastructure is needed for women’s presence in stadiums,” Rabiei said.

Khodayari’s self-immolation alongside the refusal by an Iranian judoka to withdraw from the 2019 Judo World Championships in Japan on orders of the government sparked a Twitter hashtag, #BanIRSportsFederations, that this month has been used tens of thousands of times.

Taking the call for a ban on Iranian participation in international tournaments and their qualifiers literally, Ali Karimi, a past Asian footballer of the year and top Iranian player opted to lead the way and set an example for FIFA and the AFC.

Karimi advised his 4.5 million followers on Instagram that he would boycott soccer matches in protest against the ban on women. His post was liked more than 100,000 times in less than 30 minutes.

Amir Etemadi, a liberal activist, seconded Karimi’s decision, Tweeting that “It is time to boycott Iranian sports globally and domestically.”

The , #BanIRSportsFederations hashtag constituted a protest against government interference, a no-no under the rules that govern global sports governance and insist on maintaining a largely fictitious separation of sports and politics.

The online protest was sparked when top-ranking judoka Saeid Mollaei said he feared for his safety because he had rejected a demand to withdraw from the tournament in Japan to avoid the risk of having to face an Israeli athlete.

Mollaei was spared facing the Israeli after being defeated in the semi-final.

Iran extends its refusal to recognise Israel to barring its athletes from competing against Israelis in international tournaments – a violation of rules governing those competitions. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

When Sahar Khodayari this week set herself alight in front of a Tehran courthouse, she indicted world soccer body FIFA, its Asian regional group, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and their Presidents, Gianni Infantino and Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa.

When Sahar Khodayari this week set herself alight in front of a Tehran courthouse, she indicted world soccer body FIFA, its Asian regional group, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and their Presidents, Gianni Infantino and Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa. Infantino and Al Khalifa have been selective in their support for women’s soccer rights. Infantino was in the White House to urge US President Donald J Trump to endorse equal pay for male and female players on the same day that FIFA expressed regret at the death of Khodayarí, but did nothing to force Iran to lift its ban on women attending male sporting events. The statement called on Iranian authorities “To ensure the freedom and safety of any woman engaged in this legitimate fight to end the stadium ban for women in Iran” but failed to exert a price for continued maintenance of the ban. Dubbed Blue Girl, a reference to the colour of her favourite, storied Tehran soccer team, Esteghlal FC, Khodayari, put herself on fire after hearing by-standers speculate that the Revolutionary Court could that day sentence her to two years in prison for "Openly committing a sinful act by appearing in public without hijab" and "insulting officials." Khodayari was charged after being stopped by security in March as she sought to enter Tehran’s Azadi Stadium dressed as a man to watch Esteghlal play an AFC Asian Cup match against the United Arab Emirates’ Al Ain FC. Khodayari’s disguise is standard practice for activist female soccer fans in a football-crazy country that has the questionable honour of being the world’s only nation to bar women from attending male sporting events. Saudi Arabia, the only other country that long maintained a similar ban, abolished the restriction in 2017 as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s social reforms. In a wave of outrage on Twitter under the hashtag #Blue_Girl, Iranian deputy telecommunications minister Amir Nazemi thundered: "The death of #blue_girl is a conviction for all of us." Mulanim, another tweeter, went a step further, pointing fingers at FIFA. “Sahar Khodayari burnt herself to death in protest. When would you actually do something? @FIFAcom #fifawwc,” she tweeted. Taken together, the two tweets put the responsibility on the Iranian government for its discrimination of women and on global and regional soccer governors for allowing Iran to get away with it. FIFA announced this week that it was sending a delegation to Iran to monitor Iranian moves to allow women to attend World Cup qualifying matches. The problem is that FIFA has exerted punitive pressure only regarding World Cup matches rather than threatening to ban Iran from all international soccer events if it fails to completely lift the ban. FIFA’s push on World Cup matches could open the door to a complete lifting of the ban. Past experience, however, suggests that Iran could well treat granting women fans access to World Cup matches as an exception that confirms the rule. FIFA and the AFC are missing an opportunity to potentially force Iran to lift the ban given that barring Iranian participation in international tournaments would add to the government’s woes at a time that it is struggling to dampen the impact of harsh US economic sanctions designed to persuade Iran to renegotiate the 2015 agreement that curbed the Islamic republic’s nuclear programme. The sanctions were imposed last year after Trump withdrew from the agreement. Speaking to reporters, government spokesman Ali Rabiei suggested that a threat by FIFA to exclude Iran from international matches could push the country’s rulers over the hump. “The government’s general view is to allow women to enter football stadiums, and infrastructure is needed for women’s presence in stadiums,” Rabiei said. Khodayari’s self-immolation alongside the refusal by an Iranian judoka to withdraw from the 2019 Judo World Championships in Japan on orders of the government sparked a Twitter hashtag, #BanIRSportsFederations, that this month has been used tens of thousands of times. Taking the call for a ban on Iranian participation in international tournaments and their qualifiers literally, Ali Karimi, a past Asian footballer of the year and top Iranian player opted to lead the way and set an example for FIFA and the AFC. Karimi advised his 4.5 million followers on Instagram that he would boycott soccer matches in protest against the ban on women. His post was liked more than 100,000 times in less than 30 minutes. Amir Etemadi, a liberal activist, seconded Karimi’s decision, Tweeting that “It is time to boycott Iranian sports globally and domestically.” The , #BanIRSportsFederations hashtag constituted a protest against government interference, a no-no under the rules that govern global sports governance and insist on maintaining a largely fictitious separation of sports and politics. The online protest was sparked when top-ranking judoka Saeid Mollaei said he feared for his safety because he had rejected a demand to withdraw from the tournament in Japan to avoid the risk of having to face an Israeli athlete. Mollaei was spared facing the Israeli after being defeated in the semi-final. Iran extends its refusal to recognise Israel to barring its athletes from competing against Israelis in international tournaments – a violation of rules governing those competitions. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Death of female Iran football fan puts FIFA and Asian soccer body in dock

Eight member associations will continue their bid to host the expanded women's World Cup in 2023, soccer's world governing body FIFA confirmed on Tuesday.

FIFA agreed to increase the number of participating teams for the 2023 event from 24 to 32 following this year's edition in France, and it subsequently reopened the bidding process.

Bidding member associations include Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Colombia, Japan, New Zealand, South Africa and South Korea, which is interested in a joint bid together with North Korea.

Belgium, which registered its interest last month, as well as Bolivia were not on the latest list.

"FIFA has dispatched updated bidding and hosting documents to all eight member associations, which will have until Dec. 13 to submit their bid book, the signed hosting agreement and all other hosting and bidding documents," FIFA said in a statement https://www.fifa.com/womens-football/news/bidding-process-for-fifa-women-s-world-cup-2023tm-continues-with-eight-member-as.

"Up until the deadline for bid submissions, any member association wishing to join an existing bid will be permitted to do so provided it also submits a bidding registration to FIFA."

The tournament's expansion was pledged by FIFA president Gianni Infantino at the end of this year's World Cup, which was won for a record-extending fourth time by the United States.

Interest in the women's game has arguably never been higher, with broadcast records broken all over the world in the June-July showpiece.

Almost 59 million people watched France beat potential 2023 hosts Brazil in the last 16, becoming the most viewed women's soccer match of all time.

FIFA will conduct official inspections for relevant member associations in January and February 2020, and the hosts are expected to be named in May.

Eight member associations will continue their bid to host the expanded women's World Cup in 2023, soccer's world governing body FIFA confirmed on Tuesday. FIFA agreed to increase the number of participating teams for the 2023 event from 24 to 32 following this year's edition in France, and it subsequently reopened the bidding process.

Eight member associations will continue their bid to host the expanded women's World Cup in 2023, soccer's world governing body FIFA confirmed on Tuesday. FIFA agreed to increase the number of participating teams for the 2023 event from 24 to 32 following this year's edition in France, and it subsequently reopened the bidding process. Bidding member associations include Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Colombia, Japan, New Zealand, South Africa and South Korea, which is interested in a joint bid together with North Korea. Belgium, which registered its interest last month, as well as Bolivia were not on the latest list. "FIFA has dispatched updated bidding and hosting documents to all eight member associations, which will have until Dec. 13 to submit their bid book, the signed hosting agreement and all other hosting and bidding documents," FIFA said in a statement https://www.fifa.com/womens-football/news/bidding-process-for-fifa-women-s-world-cup-2023tm-continues-with-eight-member-as. "Up until the deadline for bid submissions, any member association wishing to join an existing bid will be permitted to do so provided it also submits a bidding registration to FIFA." The tournament's expansion was pledged by FIFA president Gianni Infantino at the end of this year's World Cup, which was won for a record-extending fourth time by the United States. Interest in the women's game has arguably never been higher, with broadcast records broken all over the world in the June-July showpiece. Almost 59 million people watched France beat potential 2023 hosts Brazil in the last 16, becoming the most viewed women's soccer match of all time. FIFA will conduct official inspections for relevant member associations in January and February 2020, and the hosts are expected to be named in May.

Eight member associations in race to host 2023 women's World Cup

Women fans will be allowed into the stadium for Iran's next football World Cup qualifier in October, a sports ministry official said Sunday, ahead of a deadline to allow their attendance.

FIFA has been stepping up pressure on Iran to ensure women are allowed to attend qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup, reportedly giving it until Saturday to comply or else face consequences.

An official at the sports ministry said on Sunday that women would be able to watch Team Melli —&nbsp;as the national team are known — at their next home game in Tehran's Azadi stadium.

"Women can go to the Azadi stadium on October 10, 2019 to watch the match between the Iranian national team and Cambodia for the Qatar World Cup qualifier," said Jamshid Taghizadeh, the sports ministry's deputy for legal and provincial affairs.

"There is no legal ban (on the presence of women in stadiums] and we must activate the infrastructure, which is underway," he said, quoted by state news agency IRNA.

"Our view on women, at all levels, is to prepare the necessary conditions for women's success."

Iran has barred Iranian women spectators at matches since the 1979 Islamic revolution, with clerics arguing they must be protected from the masculine atmosphere and sight of semi-clad men.

The authorities have allowed foreign women to go to matches in the country in the past.

And while a small number of Iranian women have attended select international matches on previous occasions, others have faced prosecution for entering stadiums at other times.

Four women were recently detained at Azadi stadium before being released, according to a report by the semi-official ISNA news agency on August 18.

Women fans will be allowed into the stadium for Iran's next football World Cup qualifier in October, a sports ministry official said Sunday, ahead of a deadline to allow their attendance.

Women fans will be allowed into the stadium for Iran's next football World Cup qualifier in October, a sports ministry official said Sunday, ahead of a deadline to allow their attendance. FIFA has been stepping up pressure on Iran to ensure women are allowed to attend qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup, reportedly giving it until Saturday to comply or else face consequences. An official at the sports ministry said on Sunday that women would be able to watch Team Melli — as the national team are known — at their next home game in Tehran's Azadi stadium. "Women can go to the Azadi stadium on October 10, 2019 to watch the match between the Iranian national team and Cambodia for the Qatar World Cup qualifier," said Jamshid Taghizadeh, the sports ministry's deputy for legal and provincial affairs. "There is no legal ban (on the presence of women in stadiums] and we must activate the infrastructure, which is underway," he said, quoted by state news agency IRNA. "Our view on women, at all levels, is to prepare the necessary conditions for women's success." Iran has barred Iranian women spectators at matches since the 1979 Islamic revolution, with clerics arguing they must be protected from the masculine atmosphere and sight of semi-clad men. The authorities have allowed foreign women to go to matches in the country in the past. And while a small number of Iranian women have attended select international matches on previous occasions, others have faced prosecution for entering stadiums at other times. Four women were recently detained at Azadi stadium before being released, according to a report by the semi-official ISNA news agency on August 18.

Iran to let women attend football World Cup qualifier: Ministry

Lionel Messi and Zlatan Ibrahimovic are the star names on the 10-player short-list announced on Monday by FIFA for its Puskas award for goal of the year.

They are joined by three women and five men, with goals scored between July 16, 2018 and July 19, 2019.

There are nominees from the Bundesliga, Spanish Liga and women's World Cup and one, a jaw-dropping shot by Billie Simpson of Cliftonville Ladies, from a Northern Ireland women's league game played on what appears to be a public pitch in front of no spectators.&nbsp;

Messi, who has yet to win the award, earned a seventh nomination with a delicate chip for Barcelona against Betis in Seville. Ibrahimovic netted with a balletic volley for LA Galaxy in Toronto in Major League Soccer.

The award, which was established in 2009, is named after the legendary Hungary, Spain and Real Madrid striker Ferenc Puskas.&nbsp;

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Fans can vote until September 1 on the 10 candidates nominated by FIFA. The governing body of world football will then choose between the top three vote-getters.&nbsp;

The two other women candidates are Ajara Nchout for a dribble and shot for Cameroon against New Zealand in the World Cup and Amy Rodriguez of Utah for a dribble and long-range shot in the US National Women's Soccer League.&nbsp;

The remaining five choices are: Brazilian Matheus Cunha, of RB Leipzig, for a spin and chip against Leverkusen in the Bundesliga, Italian veteran Fabio Quagliarella for a back-heeled volley for Sampdoria against his former club Napoli, Colombian Juan Fernando Quintero for a free kick for River Plate against Argentine rivals Racing, Andros Townsend of Crystal Palace for a volley against Manchester City and Daniel Zsori for an overhead kick for Debrecen in the Hungarian league.

Last year the Puskas award was won by Mohamed Salah of Liverpool. Ibrahimovic won in 2013. Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar have also won.

The winner will be announced at the FIFA Football Awards in Milan on September 23.

Lionel Messi and Zlatan Ibrahimovic are the star names on the 10-player short-list announced on Monday by FIFA for its Puskas award for goal of the year. They are joined by three women and five men, with goals scored between July 16, 2018 and July 19, 2019.

Lionel Messi and Zlatan Ibrahimovic are the star names on the 10-player short-list announced on Monday by FIFA for its Puskas award for goal of the year. They are joined by three women and five men, with goals scored between July 16, 2018 and July 19, 2019. There are nominees from the Bundesliga, Spanish Liga and women's World Cup and one, a jaw-dropping shot by Billie Simpson of Cliftonville Ladies, from a Northern Ireland women's league game played on what appears to be a public pitch in front of no spectators. Messi, who has yet to win the award, earned a seventh nomination with a delicate chip for Barcelona against Betis in Seville. Ibrahimovic netted with a balletic volley for LA Galaxy in Toronto in Major League Soccer. The award, which was established in 2009, is named after the legendary Hungary, Spain and Real Madrid striker Ferenc Puskas. 🚨 #PUSKAS AWARD 🚨 The ten candidates have been revealed 👀 Vote now 🗳️👇 — FIFA.com (@FIFAcom) August 19, 2019 × Fans can vote until September 1 on the 10 candidates nominated by FIFA. The governing body of world football will then choose between the top three vote-getters. The two other women candidates are Ajara Nchout for a dribble and shot for Cameroon against New Zealand in the World Cup and Amy Rodriguez of Utah for a dribble and long-range shot in the US National Women's Soccer League. The remaining five choices are: Brazilian Matheus Cunha, of RB Leipzig, for a spin and chip against Leverkusen in the Bundesliga, Italian veteran Fabio Quagliarella for a back-heeled volley for Sampdoria against his former club Napoli, Colombian Juan Fernando Quintero for a free kick for River Plate against Argentine rivals Racing, Andros Townsend of Crystal Palace for a volley against Manchester City and Daniel Zsori for an overhead kick for Debrecen in the Hungarian league. Last year the Puskas award was won by Mohamed Salah of Liverpool. Ibrahimovic won in 2013. Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar have also won. The winner will be announced at the FIFA Football Awards in Milan on September 23.

Lionel Messi, Zlatan Ibrahimovic nominated for FIFA goal of the year

The English Football Association has increased its mandatory minimum ban for first-time offenders found guilty of discriminatory behaviour to six matches from five ahead of the 2019-2020 season.

The move follows an annual report from British anti discriminatory body Kick It Out that showed a 43 percent rise in reports of racist abuse in English football last season.

Chelsea banned a supporter for life last week for racially abusing winger Raheem Sterling during last season's Premier League home match against Manchester City.

World soccer governing body FIFA doubled its minimum ban for racism to 10 games last month as soccer's authorities attempt to clamp down after a number of high profile incidents in domestic and international football.

The FA's six-game ban can be increased "depending on any additional aggravating factors" and it is also in talks with various stakeholders about how best to combat discrimination on and off the pitch.

"As part of this, The FA is reviewing what the minimum match-based suspension for proven cases of discrimination should be to ensure the deterrent in place is appropriate and effective," the FA said in a statement.

The FA also revealed it had given match officials the authority to show managers and backroom staff yellow and red cards, representing cautions and dismissals, respectively.

Any member of a team's technical staff who accumulates four yellow cards during the season will receive an automatic one game touchline ban, while eight yellows will earn the offender a two match suspension.

An individual who accrues 16 yellows during the season will be charged with misconduct and have to face an independent regulatory commission.

The English Football Association has increased its mandatory minimum ban for first-time offenders found guilty of discriminatory behaviour to six matches from five ahead of the 2019-2020 season.

The English Football Association has increased its mandatory minimum ban for first-time offenders found guilty of discriminatory behaviour to six matches from five ahead of the 2019-2020 season. The move follows an annual report from British anti discriminatory body Kick It Out that showed a 43 percent rise in reports of racist abuse in English football last season. Chelsea banned a supporter for life last week for racially abusing winger Raheem Sterling during last season's Premier League home match against Manchester City. World soccer governing body FIFA doubled its minimum ban for racism to 10 games last month as soccer's authorities attempt to clamp down after a number of high profile incidents in domestic and international football. The FA's six-game ban can be increased "depending on any additional aggravating factors" and it is also in talks with various stakeholders about how best to combat discrimination on and off the pitch. "As part of this, The FA is reviewing what the minimum match-based suspension for proven cases of discrimination should be to ensure the deterrent in place is appropriate and effective," the FA said in a statement. The FA also revealed it had given match officials the authority to show managers and backroom staff yellow and red cards, representing cautions and dismissals, respectively. Any member of a team's technical staff who accumulates four yellow cards during the season will receive an automatic one game touchline ban, while eight yellows will earn the offender a two match suspension. An individual who accrues 16 yellows during the season will be charged with misconduct and have to face an independent regulatory commission.

FA increases minimum ban for racist abuse to six matches

Football's world governing body FIFA has called on the game's authorities around the world to implement a "zero-tolerance" policy against racism.

In a letter seen by AFP, FIFA secretary general Fatma Samoura pressed for everyone associated with the game to adopt the organisation's three-point procedure.&nbsp;

"FIFA now urges all member associations, leagues, clubs and disciplinary bodies to introduce the three-step procedure in their domestic competitions, to pursue a zero-tolerance policy towards racist and discriminatory incidents in football, and to severely punish such behaviour," Samoura wrote in the letter.

The first step of the procedure, which FIFA introduced into its competitions at the 2017 Confederations Cup, involves the referee stopping a match to request a public announcement to call for any racist behaviour to cease.

That will be followed by the referee suspending the match until it stops, and finally, abandoning the match altogether.

FIFA said earlier in July that it wanted teams to forfeit matches if their supporters were deemed to be guilty of racist behaviour.&nbsp;

A report released by campaign group Kick It Out on Wednesday said reported incidents of racist abuse in English football rose by 43 percent in the 2018/19 season.

A number of incidents of racist abuse tarnished matches across Europe last season.

Montenegro fans marred England's Euro 2020 qualifier by abusing Danny Rose, Raheem Sterling and Callum Hudson-Odoi.

Manchester City winger Sterling was also the victim of alleged racist abuse in a match at Chelsea and Arsenal's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had a banana skin thrown at him by a Tottenham fan.

Football's world governing body FIFA has called on the game's authorities around the world to implement a "zero-tolerance" policy against racism. In a letter seen by AFP, FIFA secretary general Fatma Samoura pressed for everyone associated with the game to adopt the organisation's three-point procedure.

Football's world governing body FIFA has called on the game's authorities around the world to implement a "zero-tolerance" policy against racism. In a letter seen by AFP, FIFA secretary general Fatma Samoura pressed for everyone associated with the game to adopt the organisation's three-point procedure. "FIFA now urges all member associations, leagues, clubs and disciplinary bodies to introduce the three-step procedure in their domestic competitions, to pursue a zero-tolerance policy towards racist and discriminatory incidents in football, and to severely punish such behaviour," Samoura wrote in the letter. The first step of the procedure, which FIFA introduced into its competitions at the 2017 Confederations Cup, involves the referee stopping a match to request a public announcement to call for any racist behaviour to cease. That will be followed by the referee suspending the match until it stops, and finally, abandoning the match altogether. FIFA said earlier in July that it wanted teams to forfeit matches if their supporters were deemed to be guilty of racist behaviour. A report released by campaign group Kick It Out on Wednesday said reported incidents of racist abuse in English football rose by 43 percent in the 2018/19 season. A number of incidents of racist abuse tarnished matches across Europe last season. Montenegro fans marred England's Euro 2020 qualifier by abusing Danny Rose, Raheem Sterling and Callum Hudson-Odoi. Manchester City winger Sterling was also the victim of alleged racist abuse in a match at Chelsea and Arsenal's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had a banana skin thrown at him by a Tottenham fan.

FIFA call for zero-tolerance towards racism

World governing body FIFA has sought an update from the All India Football Federation (AIFF) on the domestic turmoil surrounding the merger of two leagues into one top-tier national championship.

The AIFF's plan to merge the franchise-based Indian Super League (ISL) with the I-League has faced major obstacles and there is little clarity on the roadmap, leaving stakeholders and fans confused about the future of club football.

Earlier this month, the AIFF openly backed the ISL as the country's elite competition for the first time, saying it would recommend the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) awarded its champions a slot in the continent's elite club competition.

In response six I-League clubs wrote to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and FIFA requesting intervention as well as an inquiry into the running of the AIFF.

Following extensive consultation in 2018, a combined FIFA-AFC delegation made a series of recommendations to the AIFF on the matter.

"Many of the elements under discussion are related to suggestions made in a joint FIFA and AFC report," FIFA said in a letter addressed to the AIFF requesting an update on the progress of the plans.

"The report's objectives are among others, to provide the AIFF with external expertise and to support your federation and its stakeholders in establishing and implementing a widely-supported, robust medium to long-term strategy.

"As you know, the report is therefore a comprehensive review and professional proposal which also contains a series of clear and concrete recommendations for your further consideration."

The ISL, promoted by billionaire Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries and Rupert Murdoch's Star India TV, has grown in popularity since its 2014 launch, whereas interest in the I-League has stagnated.

The I-League was formed in 2007 as a rebrand of the National Football League, which was India's first professional league when it launched in 1996.

The AIFF said earlier this month it was backing the ISL because most of the national team players were playing in the league and it was attracting more fans in stadiums and on TV.

Without making a reference to the FIFA letter, the Indian FA said its president Praful Patel "has broadly taken the same line" as suggested in the FIFA and AFC report in his communications with the I-League clubs.

"Needless to mention that this is precisely the reason that a two-three-year window is required to resolve all contentious issues amicably with all stakeholders," the AIFF said.

"The question of ... Indian Super League not remaining a closed league permanently has been clarified amply enough by the AIFF President, and promotion and relegation eventually would lead to the development of club football in India.

"The AIFF is committed to engaging with AFC and FIFA as well as all other stakeholders for finding an early resolution to these issues."

World governing body FIFA has sought an update from the All India Football Federation (AIFF) on the domestic turmoil surrounding the merger of two leagues into one top-tier national championship.

World governing body FIFA has sought an update from the All India Football Federation (AIFF) on the domestic turmoil surrounding the merger of two leagues into one top-tier national championship. The AIFF's plan to merge the franchise-based Indian Super League (ISL) with the I-League has faced major obstacles and there is little clarity on the roadmap, leaving stakeholders and fans confused about the future of club football. Earlier this month, the AIFF openly backed the ISL as the country's elite competition for the first time, saying it would recommend the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) awarded its champions a slot in the continent's elite club competition. In response six I-League clubs wrote to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and FIFA requesting intervention as well as an inquiry into the running of the AIFF. Following extensive consultation in 2018, a combined FIFA-AFC delegation made a series of recommendations to the AIFF on the matter. "Many of the elements under discussion are related to suggestions made in a joint FIFA and AFC report," FIFA said in a letter addressed to the AIFF requesting an update on the progress of the plans. "The report's objectives are among others, to provide the AIFF with external expertise and to support your federation and its stakeholders in establishing and implementing a widely-supported, robust medium to long-term strategy. "As you know, the report is therefore a comprehensive review and professional proposal which also contains a series of clear and concrete recommendations for your further consideration." The ISL, promoted by billionaire Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries and Rupert Murdoch's Star India TV, has grown in popularity since its 2014 launch, whereas interest in the I-League has stagnated. The I-League was formed in 2007 as a rebrand of the National Football League, which was India's first professional league when it launched in 1996. The AIFF said earlier this month it was backing the ISL because most of the national team players were playing in the league and it was attracting more fans in stadiums and on TV. Without making a reference to the FIFA letter, the Indian FA said its president Praful Patel "has broadly taken the same line" as suggested in the FIFA and AFC report in his communications with the I-League clubs. "Needless to mention that this is precisely the reason that a two-three-year window is required to resolve all contentious issues amicably with all stakeholders," the AIFF said. "The question of ... Indian Super League not remaining a closed league permanently has been clarified amply enough by the AIFF President, and promotion and relegation eventually would lead to the development of club football in India. "The AIFF is committed to engaging with AFC and FIFA as well as all other stakeholders for finding an early resolution to these issues."

FIFA seeks update from Indian FA as club turmoil rumbles on

Copa America winners Brazil have leapfrogged World Champions France, climbing to second place in the latest FIFA rankings, released on Thursday.&nbsp;

Brazil beat Peru 3-1 at the Maracana stadium earlier this month to collect their ninth continental title.

Belgium still tops the rankings while France slip to number three.

Algeria is the biggest movers, climbing 28 places to number 40 following their victory over Senegal in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations.

In spite of winning their first continental title in 29 years, the Algerians are only the fourth-ranked team in Africa behind Senegal (20), Tunisia (29) and Nigeria (33), another team they beat in the semi-finals.

Copa America winners Brazil have leapfrogged World Champions France, climbing to second place in the latest FIFA rankings, released on Thursday. Brazil beat Peru 3-1 at the Maracana stadium earlier this month to collect their ninth continental title.

Copa America winners Brazil have leapfrogged World Champions France, climbing to second place in the latest FIFA rankings, released on Thursday. Brazil beat Peru 3-1 at the Maracana stadium earlier this month to collect their ninth continental title. Belgium still tops the rankings while France slip to number three. Algeria is the biggest movers, climbing 28 places to number 40 following their victory over Senegal in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations. In spite of winning their first continental title in 29 years, the Algerians are only the fourth-ranked team in Africa behind Senegal (20), Tunisia (29) and Nigeria (33), another team they beat in the semi-finals.

Copa America winners Brazil climb to second in FIFA rankings, Belgium on top

Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer risked angering Manchester United fans on Wednesday, saying it was only a "loud minority" who want <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-pogba-must-stay-at-manchester-united-says-juan-mata-237724&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwihif-Zsc3jAhVJPI8KHcbCDhUQFjABegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw08boDTtHmG1m1tX3emz5Sa">Paul Pogba</a> out of the club.

The French midfielder has made clear his determination to leave the Premier League giants, with Real Madrid and his former club Juventus both said to be interested.

But Solskjaer has made clear that he wants to keep the World Cup winner, as he attempts to steer the Old Trafford club back into the Champions League.

The 26-year-old Pogba's publicly stated wish to leave, and his tepid displays at the end of last season, have infuriated many United supporters.

Asked if he expected a backlash from United supporters against the Frenchman, Solskjaer said: "I think our fans know what Paul has given the club and can give us."

The Norwegian, who will need a fast start to the season to convince doubters he's the right man for one of the biggest jobs in football, said: "Of course there are some loud and small minority (against Pogba), but Paul has been absolutely top in the group.

"Me and the players will testify to that - that he's never ever been a problem and we are just grateful that he performs as well as he does," said the manager, speaking on the eve of a friendly against Tottenham Hotspur in Shanghai.

Solskjaer meanwhile urged patience and denied that he was frustrated by the club's failure to sign more players this summer.

United have bought winger Daniel James and full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

But they are yet to seal a deal for Leicester City defender Harry Maguire, and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-pogba-central-to-manchester-united-rebuilding-plans-says-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-236576&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwihif-Zsc3jAhVJPI8KHcbCDhUQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1sAMRV0txbOMXae8IGhsrO">Solskjaer</a> is also reportedly eyeing Portuguese playmaker Bruno Fernandes.

"I am very happy with the two mentioned (James and Wan-Bissaka), we have got to be patient," said the 46-year-old former United predator, adding that he "believed in" his squad.

"It's a long haul and very important we get the right ones (players) in, we can't just jump on a different path when you hit a hurdle."

One player who looks certain to leave is forward Romelu Lukaku, who is interesting Inter Milan.

The big Belgian will again be absent on Thursday because of injury, but reports suggest that the player and the club are happy to part ways.

Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer risked angering Manchester United fans on Wednesday, saying it was only a "loud minority" who want Paul Pogba out of the club. The French midfielder has made clear his determination to leave the Premier League giants, with Real Madrid and his former club Juventus both said to be interested.

Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer risked angering Manchester United fans on Wednesday, saying it was only a "loud minority" who want Paul Pogba out of the club. The French midfielder has made clear his determination to leave the Premier League giants, with Real Madrid and his former club Juventus both said to be interested. But Solskjaer has made clear that he wants to keep the World Cup winner, as he attempts to steer the Old Trafford club back into the Champions League. The 26-year-old Pogba's publicly stated wish to leave, and his tepid displays at the end of last season, have infuriated many United supporters. Asked if he expected a backlash from United supporters against the Frenchman, Solskjaer said: "I think our fans know what Paul has given the club and can give us." The Norwegian, who will need a fast start to the season to convince doubters he's the right man for one of the biggest jobs in football, said: "Of course there are some loud and small minority (against Pogba), but Paul has been absolutely top in the group. "Me and the players will testify to that - that he's never ever been a problem and we are just grateful that he performs as well as he does," said the manager, speaking on the eve of a friendly against Tottenham Hotspur in Shanghai. Solskjaer meanwhile urged patience and denied that he was frustrated by the club's failure to sign more players this summer. United have bought winger Daniel James and full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka. But they are yet to seal a deal for Leicester City defender Harry Maguire, and Solskjaer is also reportedly eyeing Portuguese playmaker Bruno Fernandes. "I am very happy with the two mentioned (James and Wan-Bissaka), we have got to be patient," said the 46-year-old former United predator, adding that he "believed in" his squad. "It's a long haul and very important we get the right ones (players) in, we can't just jump on a different path when you hit a hurdle." One player who looks certain to leave is forward Romelu Lukaku, who is interesting Inter Milan. The big Belgian will again be absent on Thursday because of injury, but reports suggest that the player and the club are happy to part ways.

Only 'minority' of United fans want Pogba out, says Solskjaer

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