FIFA has officially extended the football-related ban of Jonathan Bukabakwa, a coach in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, until 2048. Bukabakwa, who is known locally as "Messi," was originally suspended for 20 years following a conviction related to the sexual abuse of a minor. The extension comes after reports indicated that Bukabakwa continued to coach young players despite his active suspension.

In addition to the extended ban, FIFA’s ethics committee has imposed a $15,000 fine on Bukabakwa. The governing body also penalized the Congolese Association Football Federation (Fecofa) and the Racing Club Baki, the team where Bukabakwa was found to be coaching, with fines of $50,000 each. These organizations were sanctioned for their failure to comply with the original suspension order, which effectively allowed a banned individual to maintain access to youth athletes.

This disciplinary action follows an investigation prompted by reports that the coach had ignored his professional restrictions. The case highlights significant challenges in the enforcement of international sports sanctions at the local level, particularly regarding the protection of minors in youth football programs. Neither the coach nor the sanctioned organizations have publicly contested the specific findings of the FIFA ethics committee at this time.