Ian Alves, the former General Secretary of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), has been banned from all football-related activities for five years by Fifa’s independent Ethics Committee. The decision follows findings that Mr Alves sexually harassed female staff members.
Fifa’s ruling and fine
In addition to the ban, Fifa imposed a fine of 20,000 Swiss francs ($22,000) on Mr Alves. The committee determined he had breached provisions of the Fifa Code of Ethics concerning 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 organisation stated on Monday.
Investigation details
The ruling came after a thorough review, which included written statements from the victims, documents provided by the GFF, submissions from Mr Alves, and other evidence gathered during the investigation. Mr Alves had stepped down from his role back in 2024.
The ban became effective on Monday, coinciding with the notification of the decision’s terms to Mr Alves. Fifa confirmed that the full grounds for the ruling would be communicated within 60 days, in line with its Code of Ethics. The GFF did not immediately respond to a request for comment, and Mr Alves could not be reached.
Context ahead of 2026 World Cup
The news of Fifa’s ruling comes a little over five weeks before the 2026 World Cup is due to get underway. The tournament will begin with co-hosts Mexico facing South Africa at the iconic Azteca Stadium on 11 June. Thomas Tuchel’s England are scheduled to get their own campaign underway six days later when they take on 2018 finalists Croatia, prior to further group stage matches against Ghana and Panama. The World Cup, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, is due to last over five weeks, with the final taking place in New Jersey on 19 July.
