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FIFA Suspends Panamanian Football Federation President Over Offensive Remark

Manuel Arias faces a six-month ban after referring to a national team player as "fat," sparking widespread backlash and ethical scrutiny.

By Sebastián Hernadez

Photo: Panamanian Football Federation.
Photo: Panamanian Football Federation.
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The Panamanian Football Federation (Fepafut) announced Thursday that its president, Manuel Arias, has been suspended by FIFA for six months due to "inappropriate language" after calling a women's national team player "fat." The decision, issued by FIFA's Ethics Committee, bars Arias from participating in any football-related activities until July 14, 2025.

In Arias's absence, the federation’s first vice president, Fernando Arce, will assume leadership duties. The suspension follows Arias's controversial remarks about midfielder Marta Cox, a standout player for Panama, who criticized the lack of support for women's football in the country. Arias responded by claiming Cox was "out of shape" and "fat," remarks that caused public outrage and prompted his subsequent apology.

Marta Cox: A Star Amid Controversy

Marta Cox is one of Panama's most prominent players, having represented her country in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. She is also part of the squad preparing for the 2027 World Cup under Spanish coach Toña Is. On Thursday, Cox announced her move to Turkey’s Fenerbahçe from Mexico’s Xolos, a significant milestone in her career.

The controversy surrounding Arias's remarks has highlighted ongoing challenges in women's football. Despite the backlash, Fepafut emphasized its commitment to promoting gender equality within the sport.

Federation's Response and Future Plans

In an official statement, Fepafut clarified that the suspension affects Arias personally and does not impact the institution's operations. “With President Arias’s leadership, we have implemented short, medium, and long-term strategies, as well as internal transparency and compliance processes,” the statement read.

The federation also highlighted recent efforts to advance women's football, including:

  • Equalizing allowances and bonuses for male and female teams.
  • Renewing coaching staff for the U-20 and senior women’s teams.
  • Expanding youth development programs for boys and girls in U-14 and U-16 categories.

A Commitment to Progress

Fepafut reaffirmed its dedication to women’s football: “We will continue working to advance women's football as we have in recent years, recognizing that there is still much to be done.”

Key Points:

  • Suspension details: Manuel Arias banned from football activities until July 14, 2025, for inappropriate language.
  • Replacement leadership: First Vice President Fernando Arce will lead Fepafut during Arias's suspension.
  • Marta Cox's role: Criticism of women's football support led to the incident; Cox recently signed with Fenerbahçe.
  • Federation's stance: Fepafut stressed that the suspension does not impact its operations and reiterated its commitment to gender equality.
  • Ongoing efforts: Equal pay, coaching staff renewal, and youth development programs highlight the federation’s progress in women’s football.

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