Palestine football boss ‘denied entry’ into Australia | Canberra CityNews

By Rachael Ward in Melbourne

Reports the head of the Palestine Football Association has been denied entry into Australia is a matter for the government, according to Football Australia.

The Socceroos are scheduled to take on Palestine in a World Cup qualifier in Perth on Tuesday night.

7 News reports Palestine Football Association president Jibril Rajoub was denied entry over a “technicality” in his visa application and was not onboard a private plane carrying players that touched down in Perth on Saturday.

A spokesperson for Football Australia said the organisation provides visa support to to all visiting football delegations, in line with responsibilities as the host member association.

“Football Australia is aware of the situation regarding the president of the Palestine Football Association, Jibril Rajoub,” they said.

“This is a matter for the Australian Government.”

The sporting body will continue to work with the federal government to facilitate the arrival of football stakeholders, they added.

Mr Rajoub is a politician and also the chairman of the Palestine Olympic Committee.

He met with International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach in Lausanne, Switzerland, in April.

The Department of Home Affairs does not comment on individual cases but a spokesperson said all non-citizens applying for visas are considered on an individual basis against requirements in national migration legislation.

International football’s governing body FIFA said responsibilities for granting entry to a country rests with relevant national authorities.

“FIFA is in favour of the entry and exit of all members of all delegations, for all international fixtures,” a spokesperson said.

The Palestine Football Association has been contacted for comment.