FIFA warn Ukraine to keep FA management in place
KIEV, Jan 25 (Reuters) - FIFA has warned Euro 2012 co-hosts Ukraine it risks suspension if the country's soccer federation (FFU) replaces its current management, according to a letter from world soccer's governing body made public on Tuesday.
In December, several FFU members tried unsuccessfully to sack FFU president Hrigory Surkis who has been accused by some fans of favouring Dynamo Kiev, a team run by his brother Ihor Surkis.
Surkis' opponents have said they would continue to seek his dismissal.
FIFA said it had evidence of "interference by state authorities" in the case and warned the FFU against sacking Surkis before his term expires in 2012.
"In this regard, we have received clear evidence that some of these members made the decision... after strong pressure was exerted on their delegates by government representatives and other persons and bodies external to the FFU," FIFA said in a letter published on the FFU web site www.ffu.org.ua.
FIFA said it would not recognise any new management.
"FIFA requests that the FFU maintain its current executive committee until the end of its legitimate mandate in 2012. FIFA will not recognise any other leadership which emerges from a process marred by interference," it said.
According to FIFA rules, any third party interference in the activities of a national soccer federation could lead to the suspension of its membership.
"Among other things, it (suspension) would mean that no Ukrainian team of any sort (including clubs) could have any sporting contact with a FIFA member," FIFA warned.
