History
The Hellenic Football Federation was founded in 1926, by a decision of the three major Unions of the country (Athens, Piraeus, Thessalonica). Its foundation marked organising the Greek football according to international standards. From that day on, H.F.F. has developed into the biggest sports federation of the country, as football in Greece is regarded as the "king of sports" occupying the first place in sports' fans preferences.
On 3 July 2006, FIFA ruled that the Hellenic Football Federation was failing to adhere to the principles of the FIFA statutes regarding federations' political independence, and as a result the HFF was indefinitely suspended from international football. In response Greek officials put forward a proposed change in the law, however FIFA ruled that it too constituted an interference of the government in matters that should be under the football federation's jurisdiction. Based on this FIFA concluded that Greece would not be able to meet its 15 July 2006 deadline and should therefore be suspended until further notice. The suspension would have meant that Greek clubs would not be allowed to participate in international competitions and that the Greek national team would not be able to participate in any international matches. There were also doubts cast over whether the 2007 UEFA Champions League Final will be played at the Athens Olympic Stadium as previously scheduled.
On the 7 July 2006, however, the Greek Government ratified a new version of the sports law, granting the HFF independence – and thus adherence to FIFA statutes. FIFA announced the lifting of its ban that day, judging that the amendments adhered to FIFA and UEFA statutes. This will allow Greece to defend their European Championship in 2008 and also allow Greek clubs to participate in European competitions.
On December 11, 2008, current president Vassilis Gagatsis resigned from his position, after 8 years as president. New elections will be held on January 17, 2009.
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