The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has officially begun the 2025 FIFA Central Review process, following the arrival of auditors appointed by world football’s governing body, FIFA.

The review, conducted this year by EY Switzerland, forms part of FIFA’s annual financial oversight exercise for all Member Associations to ensure transparency, accountability and proper use of funds, particularly development support under the FIFA Forward Programme.

According to the GFA, a kick-off session was held last week between officials of the Association and the audit team to outline the audit plan and expectations. The meeting was followed by the submission of all required documentation and financial records to facilitate the review.

The auditors are expected in Ghana in the coming days to begin the on-site examination of the Association’s financial accounts for the 2025 FIFA financial year, which spans January 1 to December 31, 2025.

Under FIFA regulations, Member Associations are required to submit their financial reports by the end of the first quarter each year, after which the Central Review is conducted in the second quarter. Failure to meet reporting deadlines can attract financial sanctions.

The GFA confirmed that its submitted reports include detailed accounts of how FIFA Forward Funds disbursed during the period were utilised.

The upcoming review follows a strong track record by the Association in recent years. Since the resumption of football activities in Ghana after the normalisation period, the GFA has successfully passed six consecutive FIFA audits, covering the 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 financial years.

Association officials say they are confident of another positive outcome and have pledged full cooperation with the auditors throughout the process.

“The GFA welcomes the FIFA Audit Team and will work assiduously as always to ensure another successful Central Review within the timelines given,” the statement noted.

The annual review is widely regarded as a key accountability mechanism, reinforcing governance standards and strengthening confidence in the management of football funds across member associations worldwide.