FIFA cautions Football Kenya Federation over court cases, hints at possible sanctions
News FIFA warned the Football Kenya Federation that escalating court battles over football matters breach its statutes and could trigger disciplinary measures. FIFA has formally warned the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) about the rising number of football‑related disputes being taken to Kenyan courts, stating that non‑compliance with its autonomy rules may lead to disciplinary action.
The warning was conveyed in a letter dated 5 October, signed by FIFA Chief Member Associations Officer Elkhan Mammadov, who reminded FKF that its constitution obliges it to resolve football disputes through recognised arbitration bodies rather than ordinary courts, unless specific legal provisions permit court intervention. Mammadov highlighted that recent court cases involve issues such as competition organisation, elections, membership and disciplinary decisions, all of which fall within the scope of football governance.
He cited Article 69 of FIFA's 2017 constitution, which requires disputes to be heard by independent arbitration tribunals recognised by FKF or CAF, or by the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland. Mammadov also referred to Article 51 of the FIFA Statutes, which bars member associations from taking football matters to ordinary courts unless FIFA rules or national law expressly allow it, including for temporary court orders.
While FIFA did not announce immediate sanctions, the letter warned that any breach of the autonomy principle could be referred to FIFA's competent bodies for appropriate measures under the statutes. The warning comes amid a prolonged leadership dispute within FKF, pitting President Hussein Mohammed against Deputy McDonald Mariga and other NEC members over financial accountability and federation management.
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