BRUSSELS // World football's governing body Fifa have dropped their threat of sanctions against Poland after reaching an agreement with the country's government, the Fifa president Sepp Blatter said today.
"We have received letters and documents that there has been an agreement between the [Poland] FA (Football Association) and the Polish government," Blatter told reporters in Brussels.
"If this agreement comes into force tomorrow it is sufficient for us. We will not impose any sanctions once the agreement comes into force."
Fifa last week warned the Polish government that they were facing the possible suspension of their national football team after the Polish authorities decided to remove the FA's leadership and install a government-appointed administrator.
European football's governing body Uefa also said that Poland would likely lose its right to host the 2012 European Championship ? which they are to co-host with Ukraine ? unless an agreement was reached before Fifa's deadline today.
According to a statement released by Fifa following Blatter's announcement, the Polish government has agreed to end its administration of the football association and adhere a "roadmap" set up following a similar row in 2007.
Under the terms of the agreement, Fifa said that an independent electoral committee comprising government, Fifa and Uefa representatives, would oversee upcoming elections for the leadership of the Polish FA.
"This positive evolution will allow the two 2010 Fifa World Cup qualifying matches Poland v Czech Republic and Slovakia v Poland, scheduled for Oct 11 and 15, to take place," the statement said.
"However, Fifa will continue to closely monitor the situation at the Polish FA and the implementation of the measures established in the roadmap.
"The matter will be analysed and discussed once more at the next Fifa Executive Committee meeting on 23-24 October."
*Reuters
The specs
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo
Power: 178hp at 5,500rpm
Torque: 280Nm at 1,350-4,200rpm
Transmission: seven-speed dual-clutch auto
Price: from Dh209,000
On sale: now
At a glance
Global events: Much of the UK’s economic woes were blamed on “increased global uncertainty”, which can be interpreted as the economic impact of the Ukraine war and the uncertainty over Donald Trump’s tariffs.
Growth forecasts: Cut for 2025 from 2 per cent to 1 per cent. The OBR watchdog also estimated inflation will average 3.2 per cent this year
Welfare: Universal credit health element cut by 50 per cent and frozen for new claimants, building on cuts to the disability and incapacity bill set out earlier this month
Spending cuts: Overall day-to day-spending across government cut by £6.1bn in 2029-30
Tax evasion: Steps to crack down on tax evasion to raise “£6.5bn per year” for the public purse
Defence: New high-tech weaponry, upgrading HM Naval Base in Portsmouth
Housing: Housebuilding to reach its highest in 40 years, with planning reforms helping generate an extra £3.4bn for public finances
Day 2, Abu Dhabi Test: At a glance
Moment of the day Dinesh Chandimal has inherited a challenging job, after being made Sri Lanka’s Test captain. He responded in perfect fashion, with an easy-natured century against Pakistan. He brought up three figures with a majestic cover drive, which he just stood and admired.
Stat of the day – 33 It took 33 balls for Dilruwan Perera to get off the mark. His time on zero was eventful enough. The Sri Lankan No 7 was given out LBW twice, but managed to have both decisions overturned on review. The TV replays showed both times that he had inside edged the ball onto his pad.
The verdict In the two previous times these two sides have met in Abu Dhabi, the Tests have been drawn. The docile nature of proceedings so far makes that the likely outcome again this time, but both sides will be harbouring thoughts that they can force their way into a winning position.
The biog
Marital status: Separated with two young daughters
Education: Master's degree from American Univeristy of Cairo
Favourite book: That Is How They Defeat Despair by Salwa Aladian
Favourite Motto: Their happiness is your happiness
Goal: For Nefsy to become his legacy long after he is gon
If you go
The flights
There are direct flights from Dubai to Sofia with FlyDubai (www.flydubai.com) and Wizz Air (www.wizzair.com), from Dh1,164 and Dh822 return including taxes, respectively.
The trip
Plovdiv is 150km from Sofia, with an hourly bus service taking around 2 hours and costing $16 (Dh58). The Rhodopes can be reached from Sofia in between 2-4hours.
The trip was organised by Bulguides (www.bulguides.com), which organises guided trips throughout Bulgaria. Guiding, accommodation, food and transfers from Plovdiv to the mountains and back costs around 170 USD for a four-day, three-night trip.