ZURICH (AP) — FIFA has cleared Belize to continue playing in World Cup qualifying next month by lifting the threat of suspension after government interference in the national federation’s affairs.
Belize’s sports ministry has long-standing disagreements with federation president Bertie Chimilio, a member of FIFA’s appeals committee, over alleged election wrongdoing.
FIFA says the ministry has now promised “unconditional support for the national team in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.”
Belize plays in a CONCACAF region second-round group with Grenada, Guatemala and St. Vincent-Grenadines between September and November.
FIFA’s peace plans calls for Chimilio and other soccer officials to face elections by Dec. 10.
