When will Samson Siasia’s FIFA ban be lifted?

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Former Nigerian football star Samson Siasia is poised for a significant return to the sport following the end of his five-year ban imposed by FIFA.

Known for his successful coaching career with Nigeria’s national teams, Siasia’s journey took a dramatic turn in 2019 when he was handed a lifetime ban over match-fixing allegations.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) recently reduced his ban, allowing the former Super Eagles coach to re-enter the football scene starting August 16, 2024, just two days after his 57th birthday.

Background of the Ban

Siasia’s issues with FIFA began in 2010 when he was approached by convicted match-fixer Wilson Perumal regarding a coaching job in Australia. Perumal’s proposal, which involved manipulating aspects of the team’s operations, raised concerns. Although Siasia’s responses indicated caution and a desire to understand the job’s terms, FIFA found sufficient evidence to impose the lifetime ban.

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Throughout the ordeal, Siasia has maintained his innocence, asserting there was no concrete evidence linking him to match-fixing. He expressed his frustration, saying, “There’s no proof to that. When you talk about corruption, is it not when money exchanges hands and all that? There was nothing.”

Impact and Future Plans

The ban had a profound impact on Siasia’s career and life, but he remained determined to clear his name. The CAS reduction of the ban to five years, along with the cancellation of a 50,000 Swiss franc fine after a successful appeal, has paved the way for his return.

As he prepares to re-enter football, speculation is rife about his next steps. The national team coaching position is currently vacant following Finidi George’s resignation, and Siasia could be a potential candidate. Additionally, clubs in Nigeria’s domestic leagues, including former NPFL champions Mighty Jets, are reportedly interested in his services.

Siasia’s impressive coaching credentials include guiding Nigeria’s U-23 team to silver and bronze medals at the 2008 and 2016 Olympic Games, respectively, and achieving significant success at various levels. His return to football is highly anticipated, and he remains a respected figure in the sport.