The Guinean national U23 teams, both male and female, have withdrawn from the Minifootball World Cup scheduled to take place in Croatia from October 13 to 16, 2026. According to the Guinean Minifootball Federation (FGMF), the withdrawal is due to insurmountable difficulties encountered in obtaining the necessary visas for the team's travel. Despite efforts by the Federation in collaboration with relevant sports authorities, administrative constraints and processing delays hindered the team's participation.
The FGMF expressed regret over the situation in an official statement on October 9, highlighting that despite numerous démarches, the conditions for participation could not be met within the required timeframe. The Federation acknowledged the disappointment of the players, coaches, families, and supporters who had high hopes for the international event. The teams' preparations had been commendable, and their investment remains a source of pride for the institution and Guinean sports.
The FGMF praised the commitment, discipline, and efforts of the two teams during their preparation, emphasizing that this setback, which was beyond the athletes' control, would provide valuable lessons to enhance anticipation and administrative coordination for future competitions. The Federation also expressed gratitude to the structures that attempted to resolve the situation, assuring that this setback would not affect its ambitions for development on the continental and international scenes.
The Minifootball World Cup in Croatia will proceed without Guinea's participation, marking a significant absence for the Guinean teams. The FGMF has now shifted its focus towards a major upcoming event: hosting the African Cup of Nations in January 2027 in Conakry. The Federation has mobilized its energies towards making this event a sporting, organizational, and popular success.
The African Cup of Nations is a significant event for Guinean minifootball, with the country set to host the nations of Africa. The FGMF called on all actors, athletes, coaches, clubs, partners, and supporters to remain united, mobilized, and confident in the future of the discipline. The event is expected to be a major milestone for Guinean sports.
The Guinean Minifootball Federation's efforts to host a successful African Cup of Nations in 2027 demonstrate its commitment to the development of minifootball in the country. The FGMF's focus on this event is expected to drive progress in the sport, with the country aiming to make a positive impact on the continental stage.
The withdrawal from the Minifootball World Cup serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by teams from Africa in participating in international competitions. The FGMF's experience will likely inform its approach to future events, with the goal of ensuring that Guinean teams can participate without encountering similar issues.
Key points
- Guinea withdraws from Minifootball World Cup due to visa issues.
- The country will host the African Cup of Nations in January 2027.
- The Guinean Minifootball Federation is committed to developing the sport in the country.
