Mauritania Refutes Claims of External Influence in Football Affairs

Wednesday 24 January 2024 - 16:55

The Mauritanian Football Federation (FFRIM) has vehemently refuted allegations circulating in Algerian media that it received financial support from Morocco. In statements issued by FFRIM, it categorically dismisses unfounded rumors suggesting that Morocco provided funding for Mauritania's preparations for the recent Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia and Cote d'Ivoire.

These accusations implied that Morocco covered various expenses, including accommodation, air travel, and logistical support, such as sports equipment, for the Mauritanian delegation. FFRIM, however, asserts that these reports are "completely baseless." In both Arabic and French, the federation emphasizes that the financing of national teams is "exclusively a sovereign matter," immune to external interference or discussion.

FFRIM underscores that it has "never accepted and never will accept any external interference in the support of national selections, whether related to accommodation, the organization of domestic or foreign training camps, or the acquisition of sports gear." The federation's statement urges all parties to exercise caution when evaluating "these false reports, which seem intended solely to destabilize the national team on the eve of an important match."

Simultaneously, on social media, certain Algerian accounts have propagated an additional rumor that Mauritania's U20 team is currently in a training camp hosted and fully funded by Morocco. FFRIM's robust denial underscores the federation's unwavering commitment to maintaining independence in football governance and resisting influence from foreign interests during competitive periods. As online accusations persist, Mauritania remains steadfast in asserting that its football programs remain self-directed and immune to external pressures.