We regret to note that, instead of taking responsibility for the incidents that occurred during the final match of the Macedonia Cup, FC Shkëndija has once again attempted to divert attention toward FFM and its decisions.
No blackmail, pressure or threats will sway the Football Federation of Macedonia (FFM) from its intention to put an end to disorder in the stands, regardless of who is responsible. Respect for the opponent, the fans, the laws and the state symbols is an obligation for everyone, and there will be no exceptions. The rules must apply equally to every club, every individual and every entity in Macedonian football.
Participation and the financial benefits from qualifying for European competitions have not been secured through any other country or federation, but through participation and success in the Macedonian championship and competitions organised by FFM. All privileges, benefits and financial advantages enjoyed by the clubs are the result of participation in the Macedonian football system and competitions within FFM.
It is even less clear how the way the federation is run is being challenged today, when it was precisely under that same leadership that the club won the championship title last season and achieved historic results on the European stage. If the system was good and fair then, it is difficult to explain why it is problematic today solely because a decision has been made that does not suit someone.
From the very first day, the new leadership and the president of FFM extended a hand of cooperation to all clubs and stakeholders in football. The intention was to build partnership-based relations, mutual trust and a shared vision for the development of Macedonian football. Unfortunately, on several occasions we have received an arrogant, conceited and condescending attitude from Shkëndija's management structures, which does not contribute to building partnership and mutual respect. But that is their choice. Although, it would be good for them to know that arrogance sometimes comes back like a boomerang.
In public, we hear ambitious announcements about major signings, European success and new projects. But at the same time, we also hear threats to withdraw from football whenever the disciplinary bodies make a decision that does not meet someone's expectations. Such an approach gives the impression that some people readily accept the benefits of the system when they win, but find it much more difficult to accept the rules and responsibility when they face sanctions.
Regarding the announcements about the sponsor possibly withdrawing, that is their business decision and FFM will respect it. But no one should expect to influence the decisions of the federation or its bodies through such messages.
The rules are the same for all clubs, regardless of the sponsor's name, the extent of its financial power or the influence someone believes they possess. Emphasising the sponsor's name in statements, public appearances and joint meetings does not impress this Federation leadership, nor does it constitute an argument that can influence disciplinary decisions. Interestingly, the latest statement was also prepared and published late in the evening, in a style that was obviously intended to demonstrate strength and importance, „typical of a big club.“ But the size of a club is not proven through statements, pressure or appeals to financial power, but through responsibility, dignity, modesty and respect for the rules.
There will be no more of what happened before. The time when someone could believe that their position, influence or financial support entitled them to different treatment is over. Today, only one principle applies. The same rules for everyone. That is the foundation of sporting justice and the only path FFM will follow.
For years, a message of special power and influence was promoted in public. But the time when someone could believe that different rules applied to them is over. If someone believes that their name, financial power or contribution entitles them to preferential treatment, then they fundamentally do not understand the principle of sporting justice. There are no untouchables in Macedonian football.
FFM will not make decisions under pressure, nor will it allow blackmail to influence the work of its bodies. All clubs are important to Macedonian football, all have their merits and all deserve respect. But no one is above the rules.
With this, we consider the matter closed. The integrity of the competitions, respect for the laws, the dignity of sport and equal treatment for all remain principles from which FFM will not deviate. The rules will apply to everyone, including FC Shkëndija and its sponsor. Without exception.
