The Fiji Football Association has confirmed that Aiyaz Mohammed Musa Umarji has formally withdrawn his appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), bringing an end to his challenge against his disqualification under Article 46(6) of the FFA Statutes.
With the appeal withdrawn, CAS will now issue an award on costs in due course. FFA says the conclusion of the case allows the organisation to move forward while upholding the principles that govern football administration.
FFA Chief Executive Officer Mohammed Yusuf said the Association stands firmly by its earlier decision, noting that Umarji’s conviction for the importation of pseudoephedrine directly conflicts with the standards expected of football officials.
“Offences of this nature fundamentally undermine the integrity standards required of football officials,” Yusuf said. “Such conduct cannot and will not be tolerated. Article 46(6) exists to protect the credibility of football administration, and all members and delegates are expected to uphold it.”
He said the Association does not accept that the conviction was a private or unrelated matter, given the global anti-doping frameworks under which the substance is strictly monitored.
In line with the FFA Code of Ethics, the organisation will now review all conduct and statements related to the matter. Any breaches identified will be referred to the FFA Ethics Committee for possible action.
Fiji Football acknowledged the disruption and reputational issues arising from the case but reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability and strong governance. Among its priorities are upholding statutes that protect the integrity of football administration, preserving public trust, and ensuring that all office holders meet the highest ethical standards.
With the appeal withdrawn, the challenge to the FFA Governance Committee’s decision of 27 May 2025 has lapsed. FFA also confirmed that the provisional CAS order that had allowed Umarji to contest the May 2025 elections has expired.
The Association further clarified that Umarji was never declared elected, and FFA will now proceed with the appropriate next steps as required under its Statutes.
