January 22 – Two years in the past, Norway’s soccer president Lise Klaveness was denied a seat at UEFA’s high desk, predominantly the property of males.
Klaveness needed to make historical past by turning into the primary lady in UEFA historical past to take a seat on the manager committee by defeating male candidates in an election, however she fell nicely brief in a secret poll.
She by no means actually stood an opportunity however now, the outspoken 43-year-old, a staunch and outspoken campaigner for human rights and participant welfare, is attempting once more however this time for one of many two seats reserved for girls.
The election takes place on the UEFA Congress in Belgrade on April 3.
Klaveness has an in depth background that features taking part in for her nation, training legislation and serving as a choose. If elected, she goals to emphasize the safety of gamers’ bodily and psychological well being, however will she recover from the road?
Earlier than the Qatar 2022 World Cup on the FIFA Congress Klaveness bravely went earlier than the congress calling out Qatar and its human rights document. Extra just lately she has criticised FIFA over the dearth of fundamental governance within the means of awarding the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia (although has in a roundabout way attacked Saudi Arabia’s human rights document). It’s a refined change of method that has been not gone unnoticed or unappreciated by a major variety of influential UEFA determination makers. Prior to now she has accused FIFA boss Gianni Infantino of an absence of seriousness over reforms.
“The time is correct for me,” she stated in an announcement on Tuesday. “Lately, I’ve travelled throughout Europe to higher perceive the dynamics of worldwide soccer.
“My ardour for the game, which I’ve cherished since childhood, has given me a robust motivation to work onerous and use my expertise to make a distinction.”
Contact the author of this story at moc.l1737519666labto1737519666ofdlr1737519666owedi1737519666sni@w1737519666ahsra1737519666w.wer1737519666dna1737519666