Linafoot: towards a compromise between FECOFA and the clubs for the format of the 2023-2024 season
In the world of Congolese football, a glimmer of hope is emerging regarding the resolution of the conflict over the format of Ligue 1. The Minister of Sports, François Claude Kabulo Mwana Kabulo, brought together the members of the FECOFA Standardization Committee as well as club representatives to discuss the format of the championship. According to the information collected, a consensus is emerging in favor of a three-zone format, an option that seems to satisfy the clubs.
Despite the discussions, a compromise has not yet been found. A second meeting is scheduled for Thursday to continue discussions and reach a final decision. The clubs express their wish to see the championship take place in three zones, a request supported by the population. However, FECOFA, as the organizer of the national championship, insists that the format must meet FIFA’s requirements, not simply satisfy an interested party.
FECOFA President Dieudonné Sambi explains that a proposal was made to the clubs a few days ago, which provided for a two-group format with 10 teams and a promotion of 6 teams to the first division. However, FECOFA believes that this proposal created inequality and requested that three teams go up and three teams go down, in order to promote fairness in the competition.
It is difficult to say how close the discussions will lead to a final agreement. The decisions taken must meet the requirements of CAF and take into account the financial aspects of football. Linafoot has already published its recovery schedule, set for August 23, which makes the situation even more urgent.
In conclusion, negotiations between FECOFA and the clubs are continuing to find a compromise on the format of the next Congolese Ligue 1 season. Talks focus on a three-zone format, but FECOFA insists on meeting FIFA requirements