REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- The issue of dual positions between government officials and the chairman of the national football federation often raises debate. This main concerns are conflicts of interest and government intervention against sports federations. However, in FIFA rules, the duplication of such posts is not explicitly prohibited.
Two prominent examples are Vitaly Mutko of Russia and Adnan Dirjal of Iraq. Mutko became Russia Minister of Sport (2008-2016), and became chairman of the RFU ('PSSI' Russia 2015-2107). And Dirjal became minister Iraq of sport 2020-2022 and was the chairman of Iraq Football Association or IFA 2021 until now.
FIFA rules focus on independence rather than Status of Office. FIFA stressed that football federations in each country should be free from political interference or third parties.
Led through democratic electoral mechanisms according to the statutes of each federation. Maintain independence in making technical and organizational decisions.
However, FIFA has no rules prohibiting state officials such as ministers, lawmakers, or other public officials from becoming federation chairmen. As long as the federation remains independent, there are no automatic sanctions.
Vitaly Mutko served as the Minister of Sports of Russia (2008—2016) as well as the President of the Russian Football Union (RFU). Mutko played a big role in Russia's preparations as hosts of the 2018 World Cup.
Despite criticism, especially in relation to doping cases in Russia, FIFA has never imposed sanctions for his duplication of office.
Mutko eventually stepped down from the RFU president's chair in 2015 to focus on governance duties, but his decision was purely due to internal Russian factors, not FIFA pressure.
Adnan Dirjal, a legendary former Iraqi player, was elected President of the Iraqi Football Federation (IFA) in 2020. In 2022, he was also appointed as Iraq's Minister of Youth and Sports.
Despite serving two strategic positions at once, FIFA does not consider it a violation.
Indeed, many say Dirjal's dual role helps strengthen coordination between the government and the federation in rebuilding Iraq's troubled football.
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