FIFA Lifts all Financial Restrictions on SLFA

By Nenneh Fofanah

Freetown, 26^th January 2026- The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has announced that FIFA has officially lifted all financial restrictions previously imposed on the federation, marking a significant boost for football development in the country.

At a press conference in Freetown, SLFA Acting Secretary General Mohamed Benson Bawoh confirmed that the global football governing body had, as of January 19, 2026, removed all sanctions affecting Sierra Leone’s access to FIFA development funds.

“This decision by FIFA restores full financial support to the SLFA and allows us to focus on strengthening football structures across the nation,” Bawoh stated.

The most recent restriction a 20 percent cut in development funding, was introduced in July 2025 following disputes surrounding Mighty Blackpool’s relegation in the Leone Rock Premier League. The club had sought FIFA’s intervention, and the federation eventually ruled in their favor, prompting FIFA to impose temporary financial controls.

Similar restrictions have been applied to other member associations in the past, including Jamaica, Bangladesh, and Kenya, usually linked to governance concerns, government interference, or issues of financial accountability. FIFA typically lifts such sanctions once risks are addressed and compliance with its rules is demonstrated.

The lifting of restrictions means Sierra Leone will once again benefit fully from the FIFA Forward Development Programme, which provides funding for football infrastructure, domestic competitions, national team support, women’s football, technical development, and administrative operations.

In the same press conference, the SLFA announced a major increase in subventions to regional associations from $15,000 to $50,000 aimed at strengthening grassroots football across the country.

“This is a reset for football development in Sierra Leone,” Bawoh emphasized, noting that the restored funding will accelerate plans to expand youth programs, improve facilities, and support both men’s and women’s national teams.