FIFA Bans Panama Football President for Misconduct

A few days after Panama proudly secured a spot in the 2026 World Cup, the
country’s football federation president, Manuel Arias, has been banned by FIFA.
The ban comes because he failed to follow an earlier punishment given to him for
making fat-shaming remarks about a player from the Panama women’s national team.

FIFA said that Arias is now banned from all football-related activities for six
onths. This includes taking part in official meetings, making decisions for the
federation, and representing Panama in international football events.

His six-month ban will end only about four weeks before the World Cup begins in
the United States, Mexico, and Canada in 2026. This means he will miss an
important period of preparation for Panama’s men’s team.

FIFA has been strict about protecting players from harassment, bullying, and
abusive behaviour. The organisation said leaders in football must set an example
by treating players with respect, and failing to do so will lead to punishment.

Panama’s football community is now waiting to see who will take over Arias’s
responsibilities during the ban and how the team will continue its preparations
for the World Cup.