Fifa Extends Worldwide Ban on Man Who Secretly Filmed Altach Women's Team

Fifa has extended the worldwide ban on a former match official and SCR Altach employee who was found guilty of secretly filming members of the club’s women’s team. The decision marks a significant escalation in the case, following a February ruling by the regional court in Feldkirch, Austria. The court handed the man a seven-month suspended prison sentence and a €1,200 fine. He was also ordered to pay €625 in compensation to each victim. The offenses included taking unauthorized videos and photographs of players, including minors, in private areas such as changing rooms, the gym, and showers between 2018 and 2025. The extension of the ban to a global scope was achieved after intense pressure from players’ unions. This outcome underscores the growing institutional commitment to protecting athletes from sexual violence and ensuring perpetrators face consequences beyond national borders. The case highlights the intersection of criminal justice and regulatory action in safeguarding the integrity and safety of football.