GFF petitions FIFA over T&T player Boucaud

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has submitted an official protest to FIFA regarding the selection of Andre Boucaud by Trinidad and Tobago in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March.

The GFF believes Boucaud was ineligible for selection as a registered intermediary and, as such, that any points secured by Trinidad and Tobago during any related FIFA World Cup qualification matches should be forfeited.

In its 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification match on March 25, Guyana lost 3-0 to Trinidad and Tobago. Boucaud, who was registered as an intermediary with the English Football Association at the time, was selected in Trinidad and Tobago’s match-day squad.

Under FIFA rules, all conflicts of interest with intermediaries – or agents – must be avoided. Intermediaries cannot have any contractual relationship with a national football association.

Under English Football Association rules, players cannot be registered intermediaries.

Following an extensive investigation and careful consultation with its legal team, the GFF has sent its written evidence to FIFA and urged the global governing body of football to consider its case.

“We have taken this matter very seriously and have presented our findings to FIFA – that this individual was ineligible to play for Trinidad and Tobago as a registered intermediary with the English FA,” said GFF President Wayne Forde.

“It is vital for the integrity and fairness of the game that the rules are respected and upheld by everyone. We look forward to FIFA’s response in due course.”

Boucaud was an unused substitute against Guyana, and played during Trinidad and Tobago’s one-all draw with Puerto Rico on March 28.