Resignation of Uruguayan FA board prompts World Cup fears
By Myfanwy Garman
Apr 1, 2014 7:37:00 PM
There are concerns that the country could be banned from competing in Brazil because of alleged political interference but Conmebol is confident the Celeste will avoid sanction
Uruguay's place at the 2014 World Cup has been placed in doubt following the mass resignation of the board of the country's Football Association (AUF).
The shock move is reportedly related to the Uruguayan government’s decision to withdraw police protection at games involving club sides Penarol and Nacional because of violent clashes involving their their "barras bravas" fans.
"The well-publicised acts that have occurred in recent times show the need for [the AUF board to take] a step to one side and allow other political views to govern our football," the resignation letter from the AUF president Sebastian Bauza said.
Media reports have suggested that the crisis could lead to Uruguay, who have been drawn in Group D alongside England, Costa Rica and Italy, being thrown out of the World Cup.
However, Eugenio Figueredo, president of South American football's governing body, Conmebol, said that he is not aware of any Fifa investigation into the AUF's actions, adding that he does not believe there is any risk of Uruguay being prevented from competing in Brazil.
"When governments intervene, a national association is provisionally suspended [by Fifa] ... But I have no proof the government played a part in Bauza's exit," said Figueredo.
"The World Cup is already on top of us. Can you imagine a national association being suspended [now] for an internal or sports politics matter?
"Fifa is a bit more serious. I don't think Uruguay's place at the World Cup is at risk."
