FIFA suspends Pakistan from international soccer

GENEVA — FIFA suspended Pakistan from international soccer on Wednesday because of government interference after disputed national federation elections.

The Pakistan soccer federation’s “offices and its accounts remain in control of a courtappointed administrator,” FIFA said. The ban cuts off funding from Zurich, and bars national and club teams and officials from international games and meetings.

Rules imposed by FIFA and its members prohibit outside influence on their independence. The rules can have the effect of protecting unpopular soccer officials from government intervention.