Mali’s football captain, Hamari Traore, has been handed a significant blow after being suspended by the national federation for his role in a player-led protest against the country’s football governing body.
The Real Sociedad defender was one of the international players who signed a letter last month criticizing the federation’s management and lack of professionalism. The players threatened to boycott the national team if their concerns were not addressed.
The letter, which was addressed to Mali’s football fans, sparked a heated debate in the country and led to Traore being summoned to appear before a disciplinary commission. However, the 32-year-old failed to show up, leading to his suspension.
According to sources, Traore has been banned for “lacking honor and dignity, incitement, and rebellion against the national team and Malian football”. The exact length of the suspension is yet to be confirmed.
This latest development is likely to further fuel tensions within Mali’s football community, with the players’ demands for reform still outstanding. The Mali national team has been struggling on the pitch in recent years, and the players’ grievances have been echoed by many fans.
Will this suspension have any impact on Mali’s football future? Only time will tell.
