FIFA Bans Former Guyana Football Official for Five Years Over Sexual Harassment

FIFA's independent Ethics Committee has found former Guyana Football Federation General Secretary Ian Alves guilty of sexually harassing female staff members, leading to a five-year ban from all football-related activities. The global governing body also fined Alves 20,000 Swiss francs, equivalent to $25,500, after determining he breached provisions of the FIFA Code of Ethics related to the protection of physical and mental integrity, abuse of position, and general duties.

“FIFA has a strict stance against all forms of abuse in football,” the organization stated on Monday.

Al Jazeera reported these details from FIFA's announcement. The decision came after a thorough review that included written statements from the victims, documents provided by the Guyana Football Federation, submissions from Alves himself, and other evidence gathered during the investigation. This process ensured all sides were considered before the ruling.

Alves had stepped down from his position as General Secretary of the Guyana Football Federation in 2024, prior to the ethics probe's conclusion. The ban took effect on May 5, 2026, when Alves was notified of the decision's terms. In accordance with the FIFA Code of Ethics, the full grounds for the ruling will be communicated within 60 days.

This timeline allows for detailed documentation of the committee's findings and reasoning.