Fresh twist as Jamaica demand answers from FIFA over DR Congo’s ineligible player

The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) says it plans to contact FIFA over claims that the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) used an ineligible player during the World Cup intercontinental playoffs in March.

Jamaica lost the playoff match 1-0 to DR Congo, missing the chance to secure a place at the 2026 World Cup.

The development follows reports by The New York Times and French newspaper Le Monde that FIFA knew DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi was allegedly ineligible to play against Jamaica.

JFF President Michael Ricketts said the federation was aware of the reports and would seek clarification from FIFA.

Ricketts told The Gleaner that he had spoken with a New York Times journalist involved in the investigation.

He said the JFF would discuss the matter with FIFA to establish whether the allegations contained in the reports were accurate before deciding on its next step.

The issue centres on Mpasi, who was born in France and reportedly represented the country at youth level. Although he has family links to DR Congo, questions have been raised over whether the Congolese Football Federation properly completed the process required by FIFA for him to change his international allegiance.

Nigeria had earlier raised a similar eligibility complaint against Mpasi after DR Congo eliminated the Super Eagles during the African qualifiers.

According to The New York Times and Le Monde, FIFA’s disciplinary officials considered several options after Nigeria’s complaint, including the possibility of allowing Nigeria to replace DR Congo in the playoff against Jamaica.

However, FIFA reportedly ruled Nigeria’s protest inadmissible in March.

FIFA said the decision was communicated to the Nigeria Football Federation in early March and became final and binding after Nigeria failed to lodge a proper appeal.

FIFA has also strongly rejected suggestions that its president, Gianni Infantino, interfered in the disciplinary process.

The reports are based on internal FIFA documents, while the governing body has denied any interference in the case.

Ricketts said the latest revelations have reminded the JFF of what he described as the unfortunate events surrounding Jamaica’s World Cup campaign.

The JFF will now seek further clarification from FIFA before deciding whether to take additional action.