Comoros FA President urges caution over FIFA funding proposal, says smaller federations need financial support

Comoros Football Federation president Saïd Ali Saïd Athouman has called for a balanced and careful approach to FIFA’s proposed funding project, insisting that the financial struggles of smaller African football nations must be considered before any decision is made.

Athouman acknowledged the potential impact of the proposed investment, which could reportedly provide up to $20 million in support, but stressed that African football authorities must examine the implications carefully while protecting the independence and values of the sport.

Speaking on the challenges facing smaller federations, the Comoros FA boss highlighted the difficulty of securing sponsorship revenue, revealing that his association currently operates without a single major commercial partner.

“Our problem is simple: How do we get money? Right now, we don’t have a single sponsor,” Athouman said.

He argued that while some football nations may view the proposal differently due to their stronger financial structures, the reality is different for countries like Comoros that rely heavily on external support to develop the game.

“We shouldn’t reject it without studying it first. If I were European, maybe I wouldn’t think this way. But I live a different reality,” he added.

Athouman explained that additional financial resources could provide significant benefits for developing football nations, helping federations improve infrastructure, strengthen youth development programmes and create better opportunities for players.

However, he warned that financial assistance should not come at the expense of football’s governing principles, urging stakeholders to ensure that FIFA’s independence remains protected.

“As a federation president, I wouldn’t turn down the money. But let’s be careful,” he stated.

The Comoros FA president’s comments reflect the wider debate within African football, where smaller federations continue to seek greater financial support while also considering the long-term impact of major funding initiatives on the administration of the sport.