The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has written to its Member Associations reiterating that all stakeholders involved in Asian football must respect the principle of political neutrality.
The letter sent by the AFC stressed that the principle is a cornerstone of both the AFC and of the international sports movement, and is reflected in Article 3.2 of the AFC Statutes, which states: “the AFC is neutral in all matters of politics and religion”.
The letter stresses that Member Associations are also bound by Article 14.4, which says: “Member Associations shall manage their affairs independently and without undue influence from third parties”.
The letter added: “The AFC calls on all stakeholders to respect these fundamental principles moving forward. In this regard, the AFC reiterates Article 6 of the Statutes, which states: “every person and organisation directly or indirectly bound by these statutes must observe these statutes and any regulations, directives, and decisions of the AFC.”
“The AFC will have no hesitation in initiating disciplinary action for any violation of its statutory objectives. Instructions will be provided to appointed AFC match officials to rigorously report any such violations.”
