THE FANCA Federation’s decision to strip New Zealand of its 2024 championship title raises more questions than it answers.
The question is not whether an unregistered player was used.
If the allegations are true, the rules should apply.
The real concern is why it took the federation almost 2 years to act.
Justice delayed is justice questioned.
The timing, coming on the heels of the 2026 FANCA tournament, leaves many wondering why disciplinary proceedings were not initiated when the alleged breach first came to light.
If New Zealand fielded an ineligible player, why weren’t officials informed before or during the tournament? Why was the matter allowed to remain unresolved for so long?
These are legitimate questions that the federation owes its members and supporters.
The episode echoes a wider problem seen across football administration, where transparency and accountability too often take a back seat.
FIFA has repeatedly faced criticism for failing to consistently uphold its own governance and ethical standards.
In contrast, closer to home, the Fiji Football Association has also faced scrutiny over issues that have fuelled debate about fairness and equal treatment.
Whether it was the controversy surrounding Ba ‘foreign salty’ approach to the Fiji FACT final, or prolonged silence over New Zealand’s case, the perception is damaging.
Administrators must understand that fairness is not only about making the right decision, but it is about making it at the right time, and holding the rule of law through a transparent process.
FANCA was founded in 1997 on principles of unity, fairness and integrity not preferential treatment.
Those values should remain the federation’s guiding force.
The federation now has an opportunity to explain what happened, why the investigation took so long, and what measures will be introduced to ensure similar cases are handled promptly in the future.
It must also clarify whether Canada who lost the final to New Zealand would be recognized as 2024 champions.
Without those answers, the question will continue to linger, was justice served, or merely delayed until it became convenient?
