• A feather in the cap of FFSL boss



World football governing body-FIFA has appointed Football Federation of Sri Lanka (FFSL) President Jaswar Umar to its Committee for Grassroots and Amateur Football, a press release issued by the FFSL, said on Saturday (11).

This appointment comes at a time when Sri Lanka football is experiencing rapid growth under the visionary leadership of President Umar, over the past 18 months.

His strategic and bold approach has transformed the landscape of Sri Lankan football, setting new benchmarks in professionalism, governance and performance.

President Umar’s relentless focus on professionalising the national team and the elite football structure, has positioned Sri Lanka as a rising force in the South Asian region.

His modern management style and forward-thinking policies have brought renewed energy and credibility to the game, earning global recognition.

Sri Lanka’s national team has shown tremendous improvement and remains the sole South Asian nation still in reckoning for Asian Cup qualification-a testament to the significant progress achieved through structured reforms and professional planning.

With his new role in FIFA, Umar will now contribute his expertise and experience, to further uplift grassroots and amateur football on a global scale.

His appointment reflects both his growing clout in world football and FIFA’s confidence in his ability to inspire meaningful development within the game worldwide.

“Football must be built from its roots. Empowering grassroots and amateur levels ensure sustainable success for future generations,” the FFSL head stated, following his appointment.

This milestone marks yet another proud moment for Sri Lanka, as its football leadership continues to gain recognition and respect on the international stage.