Sri Lankan footballer Mohamed Thilham has been fined USD 2,000 by FIFA for displaying a political message supporting Palestine after a recent international match.
The disciplinary action follows an incident on 10 June, when Sri Lanka defeated Chinese Taipei 3-1 in an AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifier at Colombo’s Racecourse Stadium.
Although Thilham did not play, he joined his teammates in the post-match celebration and lifted his jersey to reveal the words ‘PRAY FOR FREE PALESTINE’ written on his undershirt.
FIFA, in coordination with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), cited a violation of its Disciplinary Code, which prohibits political, religious, or personal slogans during matches or related events. Despite the timing—after the final whistle—the act was still considered part of the official match environment.
As a result, Thilham has been handed a $2,000 fine, a penalty that underscores FIFA’s strict stance on maintaining political neutrality in football.
Thilham has one month to pay the fine.
Be the first to comment