Fiji FA financially healthy, says Patel

The Fiji Football Association recorded a surplus of $2.4 million during the 2019 financial year.

This is an increase of almost 50 per cent when compared to 2018 when it was at $1.23m.

This was revealed by Fiji FA president, Rajesh Patel yesterday during the 82nd Fiji FA annual congress at the Sugarcane Growers Council Hall at Lautoka, yesterday.

“This is a positive sign for

FA,” Patel said.

“The finance is healthy. We are in a healthier position to sustain the current situation.”

Fiji

The 2019 surplus was recorded after taking into account gain from the re-evaluation of investment properties amounting to $1.79m compared to $720,000 earned in 2018.

The tax expense for the year ending December 31, 2019 was $43,473 compared to $40, 676 for 2018.

The accounts were audited independently by Ernst and Young and all financials were approved at the Ordinary Congress.

FIFA grant

Patel confirmed that a FIFA grant of US$1.5m (FJ$3.2m) will further boost the sport.

Also there is a US$500,000 (FJ$1m) grant for the development of women’s football.

COVID-19 grant

Patel said they have done the COVID-19 distribution through the Oceania Football Confederation solidarity fund where they have helped 400 families.

“We are now doing the collection of forms for the second round. We are also helping out with the Tropical Cyclone Harold relief.”

Sponsors intact

None of Fiji FA sponsors have pulled out and there are just some temporary suspensions due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Patel added that they would be meeting with sponsors next week to discuss the way forward. He said Fiji FA fully understands the hardship businesses are currently facing. Patel also confirmed that they have not cut any competition or prize money.

Lami FA relegated

Lami Football Association has been relegated as an associate member since they did not comply with Fiji FA regulations.

Patel said Lami FA did not have the number of clubs as required and also with their financial reports.

“It is not that Lami is totally out of Fiji Football,” he said.

“They need to revamp and get their clubs in shape and hold their ordinary congress.”

Efforts are also being done to reinstate Levuka football.