Haris Loizides elected as the new chairman of the Cyprus Football Association, heralding a fresh era for Cypriot football.
A Vision for Change
In a pivotal moment for Cypriot football, Haris Loizides has been elected as the new chairman of the Cyprus Football Association (CFA), stepping into the role with a bold vision for the future. His appointment replaces outgoing chairman Giorgos Koumas, who resigned amid ongoing investigations into his conduct.
Loizides, whose tenure will last until the end of the 2026/27 season, described his election day as a “new beginning” for the CFA. Speaking passionately about his ambitions, he stated his intention to “change the image” of the association, emphasising the need to build “a relationship of trust” with both football clubs and the wider society.
Institutional Reforms and Football Development
At the heart of Loizides’ strategy is an “action plan” aimed at modernising the CFA’s institutional and functional structures. He plans to appoint a chief executive officer and redistribute responsibilities within the organisation, all while creating committees with “measurable goals” tailored to enhance the performance of Cyprus’ national football team.
Loizides underlined his commitment to supporting Cypriot footballers through targeted development programmes. “We serve the whole and not the individual,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of teamwork and collaboration in driving the sport forward. This approach is expected to nurture local talent, which is crucial for revitalising the nation’s footballing reputation on the international stage.
Additionally, Loizides aims to initiate structured dialogue with football clubs to modernise the league system, setting the stage for a more competitive and fair playing field. His vision includes implementing term limits for CFA chairpersons, a move designed to instil transparency and accountability in the governance of football in Cyprus.
A Call for Trust and Community Engagement
Beyond structural changes, Loizides is focused on enhancing the CFA’s public image. He believes that “[to] build trust with society,” the association must engage in strategic partnerships with the government, local authorities, and community groups. His plans include redesigned communication strategies aimed at improving accountability and transparency within the CFA.
“Engaging with the community is essential,” he asserted. “We must all work together to preempt and address violence at sports venues, which has damaged the integrity of our beloved game.” This proactive approach is expected to resonate well with fans and players alike, fostering a healthier environment for football.
As Loizides embarks on implementing these ambitious reforms, he has appealed for patience, asking supporters to judge his efforts “strictly and fairly” when the time comes. His commitment signals a departure from controversies that have plagued Greek football in recent years, notably the allegations surrounding his predecessor Koumas.
Turning the Page on Controversy
Giorgos Koumas stepped down earlier this month following a series of accusations involving “suspicious activities” and potential manipulation within the CFA. Reports indicated that Koumas faced scrutiny for allegedly creating an unfair advantage for certain clubs through the contentious distribution of television rights deals.
Complaints revealed significant disparities in how financial resources were allocated, some clubs reportedly benefitting from “bonuses granted without reasonable cause” amid claims of corruption. Koumas defended his tenure, emphasising his dedication to the sport and stating, “the sport must stop being attacked because of me.”
In stark contrast, Loizides’ ascent heralds a renewed commitment to integrity and transparency in Cypriot football. With his extensive background in CFA administration, having served as Apoel’s representative since 2005, he is poised to leverage his experience in steering the association toward a brighter future.
As the winds of change sweep through the CFA, it’s clear that the hopes of the football community rest firmly on Haris Loizides’s shoulders. His groundbreaking policies could redefine football in Cyprus, promising an era marked by reform, trust, and a triumphant return to the values at the heart of the beautiful game.
