PFF President Meets FIFA Secretary General to Discuss Football Development

KARACHI: Mohsen Gilani, President of the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF), engaged in discussions with FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom in Miami on Tuesday. The meeting centered on crucial aspects of the federation’s administration and the advancement of Pakistan’s national football team.

This marks Gilani’s second interaction with the FIFA Secretary General within a week, demonstrating the federation’s active collaboration with international football organizations.

Shahid Khokhar, the Acting Secretary of the PFF, also participated in the discussions.

According to sources, the meeting covered diverse administrative matters and encompassed deliberations regarding Pakistan’s involvement in the FIFA Series planned for the upcoming year.

FIFA reiterated its complete backing for the PFF, which has been fully reinstated following a period of administrative difficulties and suspension lasting 12 years.

The global governing body pledged its ongoing support to reinforce football administration and encourage the sport’s expansion within Pakistan.

Earlier in the week, Gilani also conferred with FIFA President Gianni Infantino during the FIFA Executive Football Summit 2025 held in Miami.

The meeting, conducted alongside the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, signified a crucial juncture for Pakistani football as the international governing body promised its assistance for the nation’s re-entry into the global football arena.

The dialogues between Gilani and Infantino addressed essential developmental domains, including administrative overhauls, the elevation of women’s football, youth participation via FIFA’s Football for Schools initiative, and the FIFA President’s anticipated visit to Pakistan.

Infantino voiced optimism concerning the resurgence of football in Pakistan after years of administrative hindrances.

“I was very happy to meet the new Pakistan Football Federation President to understand his football development plans and how FIFA can continue to support the sport in his country,” Infantino stated.

The FIFA President underscored the significance of this meeting, which transpired shortly after Gilani’s election in May 2025—the PFF’s inaugural presidential election since 2015.

Gilani recognized the recent tumultuous past of Pakistani football but conveyed assurance regarding the future and committed to close cooperation with FIFA to foster enduring advancement.