After years of limbo, litigation, and leadership crises, the moment Pakistan football fans have long waited for is finally on the horizon. Real, actual elections to choose the next Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) president. And yet, as the countdown begins, there’s an uneasy mix of hope and hesitation in the air. But before we go into the presidential race, let’s rewind the tape.
A Recap of the NC Era
When the Normalisation Committee (NC) was installed by FIFA back in 2019, its mandate was straightforward: bring normalcy to Pakistan’s football ecosystem, hold elections, and ensure a smooth transition of power.
Instead, what followed was half a decade of prolonged delays, internal disputes, multiple chairperson changes, and almost no footballing activity at the national level. For players, coaches, clubs and especially fans the NC became a symbol of “management without movement.” While some administrative housecleaning did happen (including club scrutiny and voting eligibility revisions), it was often overshadowed by governance bottlenecks, vague timelines, and the increasing disconnect from football on the pitch. Now, with the electoral process finally rolling forward, Pakistan football stands at a critical juncture.
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Three Men, One Federation: Who Will Lead?
The upcoming presidential showdown is not just a race — it’s a referendum on how Pakistan wants its football to function.
1. Taha Alizai – Known as the founder of Karachi United FC, Taha represents progressive reform. He champions grassroots revival and has often emphasized club development, local league systems, and a sustainable structure. His vision is attractive to younger fans and independent football stakeholders, though his biggest challenge remains gathering broad institutional support.
2. Mohsen Gilani – A former FIFA Development Officer with international credibility, Gilani is the technocrat in the race. He brings global football experience, knows how the corridors of Zurich operate, and offers a sense of stability to stakeholders looking for a “safe pair of hands.” Yet critics argue that Pakistan football needs transformation, not just administration.
3. Hafiz Zaka Ullah – The surprise contender with organic momentum, Zaka has emerged from within the newly elected Congress, representing homegrown football leadership. A former player and a grassroots man, he’s already secured backing from the Referees Association — a crucial nod of credibility from within the footballing community. His message of merit, inclusivity, and development is resonating, but his lack of global experience could be a stumbling block in engaging with FIFA/AFC.
Challenges Await the Next President
Whoever takes the presidential seat won’t inherit a thriving federation, they’ll inherit a ship that has been drifting for years. Here’s what’s waiting:
- Rebuilding Trust: Fans and players are disillusioned. National teams have barely played. Domestic football is a skeleton of what it once was. The first task? Earn back the people’s trust.
- Developing Domestic Football: Without a functioning league, scouting system, or youth development structure, footballers are left stranded. The new PFF must prioritize structured competitions, academy development, and coaching reforms.
- Global Relations: FIFA and AFC need to be brought back into the fold — with clear plans, transparency, and compliance. Any misstep could risk Pakistan’s international standing once again.
- Financial Transparency: Sponsorships, government support, and private investment will only return if financial systems are restructured and monitored transparently.
- Gender Inclusion: The women’s game needs urgent and genuine attention. Players need matches, coaching, and visibility — not just token words.
What Lies Ahead
These elections are not just about votes. They’re about whether we finally transition from politics to progress. Football in Pakistan is bursting with potential — from street games in Lyari to rising stars in Punjab. What it needs is a federation that listens, learns, and leads. It’s a delicate moment: a new administration can either ignite a football renaissance or cement another cycle of mismanagement. Much will depend on how open the winner is to collaboration, criticism, and innovation.
Footballer.pk will be tracking every step of this journey — the promises, the plans, and the power plays. Stay tuned for exclusive updates, interviews, and insights.