FIFA Extends Global Ban on Former SCR Altach Employee for Secretly Filming Female Footballers

FIFA has extended a worldwide ban on a former match official and employee of SCR Altach after he was convicted of secretly filming female members of the club’s women’s team. The individual was found guilty of taking covert videos and photographs of players, including minors, in private areas such as the changing room, gym, and showers.

In a regional court in Feldkirch, Austria, in February 2026, the man received a seven-month suspended prison sentence and was fined €1,200 (£1,046). He was also ordered to pay €625 (£545) in compensation to each victim. The offences took place over several years, from 2018 to 2025, exposing a serious violation of privacy and trust within the club environment.

This case has emerged amid increasing calls from players’ unions for stronger protections against abuse and misconduct in women's football. It underscores the urgent need for football authorities to implement more robust safeguarding policies to protect athletes, particularly in vulnerable settings that require privacy and trust.

By imposing a worldwide ban, FIFA has barred the individual from participating in any football-related activities under its jurisdiction. This decisive action highlights FIFA’s commitment to maintaining ethical standards and ensuring a safe environment for all players across the sport.

SCR Altach, competing in Austria’s football leagues, now faces scrutiny regarding its safeguarding measures for the women’s team. The incident serves as a reminder for clubs and governing bodies to review and strengthen policies around player safety and privacy to prevent such violations in the future.

Looking ahead, FIFA and national associations are expected to continue reinforcing disciplinary frameworks and safeguarding protocols. This case represents a critical moment in addressing the ongoing challenges of protecting female athletes and emphasizes the collective responsibility of clubs, officials, and governing bodies to maintain vigilance.

Source: theguardian.com