BFF condemns Asif Akbar’s 'derogatory' remarks on football

Terming the recent remarks made by Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) director Asif Akbar about football as "extremely derogatory, insulting, and alarming," the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) has formally condemned the comments in a letter addressed to BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul on Monday.

In the letter, BFF president Tabith Awal sought an explanation from the BCB chief, noting that he and the BFF executive committee represent thousands of footballers and millions of football supporters across the country.

"Extremely derogatory, insulting, and alarming comments about football were made at the Bangladesh Cricket Conference, which is disappointing not only for football but also for the entire sports community. We strongly condemn these comments," read the one-page letter signed by the BFF president and addressed to the BCB president.

The letter also stated that it should be considered as the official objection of the BFF.

On Sunday, newly elected BCB director Asif alleged that cricket in the country was being hampered due to football, further claiming that the behaviour of footballers was poor. He also said they would "fight if needed".

The BFF letter stated, "It is truly regrettable and concerning that such an attitude was expressed from the platform of a cricket conference. We are all committed to using sports as a platform for unity -- a platform that brings our nation together and creates pride and inspiration among future generations."

The letter further questioned the use of the term "elite", asking whether the sports community is truly upholding the values of non-discrimination and equality, as promised during the anti-discrimination movement of the July Uprising. It also questioned whether the word "fight" was intended as a threat.

"You are surely aware that my executive committee and I represent thousands of footballers and billions of the country's football supporters as the guardian. Therefore, in response to this incident, I expect a formal and public explanation from you," the letter from BFF president Tabith Awal concluded.