Ivory Coast’s Ligue 1 has reached a significant milestone thanks to the intervention of the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF).
After the home victory in the 2023 AFCON last February, FIF President Idriss Diallo added another accomplishment to his tenure. The leader decided to provide, in the form of a loan, brand-new buses to 15 clubs in the league, including ASEC Mimosas, eliminated in the quarter-finals of the African Champions League last week by Esperance Tunis (0-0 / 0-0, 2-4 on penalties).
“It’s a project awaited by all”
“Other clubs will receive their buses gradually in the coming weeks,” promised FIF’s Executive Director Armand Gohourou during a ceremony held at the federation’s headquarters in Abidjan. In partnership with the Tata automotive group, the goal is to improve “the working conditions of all members of the federation, be it clubs, players, coaches, the entire football family, and the Ivorian football ecosystem,” explained Idriss Diallo. “The real goal is for every Ivorian club to have at least one bus to ensure their travels. It’s a tool for work, not a luxury, it’s a real need,” he added.
Salif Bictogo, president of the Professional Football League, expressed gratitude towards the leader, emphasizing that this “project was awaited by all.” The sentiment was echoed by the president of Songon FC, a second-division club. “Now, no more dealing with transporters for bus rentals during our various trips,” he rejoiced.
However, it’s uncertain whether this will suffice to appease criticisms of the former president of ASEC, whom several Ivorians preferred over the icon Didier Drogba during the 2022 election.
