TINTSWALO BALOYI
JOHANNESBURG – THE Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) is pressing ahead with its initiative to build a global club licensing system.

The latest seminar on the topic is currently underway in Johannesburg.

Organised in conjunction with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the two-day seminar has brought together 13 member associations from across southern Africa to share information, expertise and experiences
about the FIFA club licensing system.

The system aims to improve club football by setting minimum standards in key areas such as stadium safety, fan experience and youth football development. Clubs then need to meet these standards to qualify for certain international competitions.

“Club licensing has an important role to play in raising professional standards and building stronger clubs. Stronger clubs mean a stronger foundation for global football,’ said James Johnson, head of the newly-created Professional Football Department at FIFA.