Jonathan Bukabakwa extends football ban to 2048 for misconduct

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 21, 2026, 9:20 AM

Last updated Oct 21, 2026

Jonathan Bukabakwa extends football ban to 2048 for misconduct

Summary

Jonathan Bukabakwa has had his football ban extended by Fifa to 2048 after a continuation of activities with children despite a previous suspension. Originally banned for 20 years due to the sexual abuse of a minor, Bukabakwa has also been fined $15,000. The Democratic Republic of the Congo's football association has been ordered to improve its educational and compliance measures regarding such offenses.

Source Links

The Guardian Sport

Key Details

•Jonathan Bukabakwa, known as Messi, banned until 2048 by Fifa.
•Originally banned for 20 years for sexual abuse of a minor.
•Continued working with young players during suspension.
•Fifa fines Bukabakwa an additional $15,000.
•DRC football association must enhance education and compliance.

Latest Updates

9:20 AMThe Guardian Sport — Coach banned until 2048 for training DR Congo kids while suspended for sexual abuse

What they're saying

"
Jonathan Bukabakwa gets extra five-year ban from Fifa DRC’s FA ordered to improve education and compliance A coach in the Democratic Republic of the Congo who was banned from football for 20 years by Fifa for sexual abuse of a minor has had his ban extended by five years to 2048 by the world governing body. Jonathan Bukabakwa, known as Messi, has also been ordered to pay an additional fine of $15,000 (£11,200) after the Guardian revealed he had continued to work with young players despite his suspension. Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby Ed Aarons and Romain Molina

Related Teams & Leagues

Soccer