FIFA´s Investigatory Chamber suggests lifetime ban for Bin Hammam aide

FIFA’s Investigatory Chamber of the Independent Ethics Committee has recommended a lifetime ban for Najeeb Chirakal, an aide to former presidential candidate Mohamed Bin Hammam.

The Investigatory Chamber’s enquiry focused mainly on Chirakal’s involvement in alleged payments to several football officials.

Chirakal has been accused of breaching seven FIFA rules, with his alleged misdemeanours including violations on general rules of conduct, duty of disclosure and reporting, conflicts of interest, offering and accepting gifts, bribery and corruption.

A FIFA statement read: “Vanessa Allard, a member of the investigatory chamber of the Ethics Committee and the chief of investigation, has concluded her enquiry into the activities of Najeeb Chirakal, and submitted the final report together with recommendations to the adjudicatory chamber of the Ethics Committee, which is chaired by Hans-Joachim Eckert. 

“The investigation concerning Mr Chirakal focused mainly on his involvement in payments to several football officials.

“In her final report, Ms Allard has recommended imposing on Mr Chirakal a lifelong ban on taking part in any kind of football-related activity (administrative, sports or any other).”

Chirakal was previously suspended by FIFA in 2012 for failing to collaborate with an investigation into Bin Hammam.

Bin Hammam was banned for life in 2012 as part of a cash-for-votes scandal for his presidential campaign.

FIFA’s statement added: “Until a formal decision is taken by the adjudicatory chamber of the Ethics Committee, Mr Chirakal is presumed innocent.”