Lebanon scores big: Four officials join FIFA’s new global committees

The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has announced its newly restructured permanent committees under Circular No. 1947, marking a major step toward expanding participation, ensuring geographical balance, and strengthening women’s representation in decision-making bodies.

Lebanon’s presence stood out in the new appointments, with four key representatives taking seats in FIFA’s committees. Lebanese Football Association (LFA) President and AFC Vice President Hashem Haidar was named to the Member Associations Committee, while Jihad Al-Shaheib, the LFA’s Secretary General, joined the Men’s National Competitions Committee. Executive Committee members Simon Douaihy and Paola Rizk were appointed to the Futsal Committee and the Grassroots and Amateur Football Committee, respectively.

This strong Lebanese showing reflects FIFA’s confidence in the country’s football leadership and the growing influence of Lebanese administrators within the global football community. It also underscores Lebanon’s active role in advancing the sport regionally and internationally.

According to FIFA’s statement, the restructuring follows the resolutions adopted during the organization’s 74th Congress, which called for a broader involvement of member associations in shaping international football policy. The appointments were approved during FIFA Council’s meeting held on October 2, with final confirmations for some committees expected after additional council review.

FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström expressed gratitude to all member associations for their contributions to the process, emphasizing that the next phase will focus on deeper collaboration between committees to enhance governance, transparency, and the overall development of football on both the technical and administrative levels.

Lebanon’s expanded representation within FIFA marks a significant milestone, one that highlights its commitment to fostering progress and integrity in the beautiful game.