Tusk supports appointment of PZPN administrator

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk backed his sports minister Mirosław Drzewiecki on Friday over the appointment of an administrator for the Polish Football Association (PZPN) stating that the official should stay in place.

Poland's arbitration tribunal suspended PZPN board and named an administrator, Robert Zwałocki, on Monday after Drzewiecki filed a motion saying that the board violated the law in a number of cases.

"I will support Minister Drzewiecki in this matter," said Tusk. "Sometimes a tough stand is needed and this can be costly. I am sure Minister Drzewiecki will not dismiss the administrator."

The move threatens Poland's participation in World Cup qualifiers and their co-hosting of Euro 2012. FIFA, whose status forbids government intervention in football affairs, said on Wednesday that Poland has until October 6 to reinstate the PZNP or risk being suspended from this month's qualifiers against CzechRepublic and Slovakia.

Meanwhile, administrator Robert Zwałocki told reporters during a press conference that he will not resign from his function.

"I can only say I will not resign from the administrator's post," said Zawłocki. "I was nominated by the arbitration tribunal and only the arbitration tribunal can dismiss me."

He confirmed that as of Monday, the PZPN is suspended. (AO)

Source: Reuters