GFA indefinitely bans PAC Academy and Port City FC from using home venues following violentiIncidents

The Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has indefinitely banned Division One League clubs PAC Academy and Port City Football Club from using their approved home venues, with immediate effect, following reports of violent incidents during their respective matches over the past weekend.

The decision was taken after the Executive Council reviewed preliminary information relating to disturbances recorded at the PAC Academy versus FC Ashgold 04 fixture, as well as the Port City FC clash with True Democracy. Acting swiftly to prevent any recurrence, the Council invoked its powers under Article 14(2) of the Division One League (DOL) Regulations.

Article 14(2) empowers the GFA to order the closure of any league centre or venue where the safety of clubs, match officials, and spectators cannot be guaranteed. In line with this provision, both clubs have been barred indefinitely from hosting matches at their officially approved venues.

As a result of the ban, the GFA’s Competitions Department will designate alternative venues for the upcoming home matches of PAC Academy and Port City FC. The selection of these venues will take into account logistical considerations, including the distance to be travelled by visiting teams.

The Football Association has also commenced a comprehensive investigative process to establish a clear and accurate account of the incidents. The GFA is working closely with the Ghana Police Service and other relevant stakeholders to gather all necessary facts and ensure accountability where required.

In a strong statement, the GFA unequivocally condemned all forms of violence in Ghana football and reiterated its call on club owners, officials, supporters, and all stakeholders to uphold the principles of fair play and sportsmanship, which remain the cornerstone of the game.

The GFA expressed sympathy to anyone affected by the reported incidents and assured the football public that the matters are being treated with the utmost seriousness. It further pledged that appropriate and decisive action will be taken in accordance with the regulations once investigations are concluded.

The GFA has urged all interested parties to remain calm as the investigative process continues, reassuring the football fraternity that justice will be served and that the safety and integrity of the game remain paramount.

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