Five local football clubs have expressed support for a letter of no-confidence in the GFA General Secretary following a recent vote, while both the GFA and UEFA have thrown the weight of their support behind Ivan Robba.
In what has been a contentious process, the Gibraltar Football League Association initially drafted and presented a letter to GFA president, Michael Llamas calling for Mr Robba’s removal from the post.
However, administrative aspects of the vote were challenged, and in response to GBC questions, Mr Llamas said he was yet to receive a proper letter summarising the clubs’ respective positions, claiming the draft he was given was unsatisfactory for such a serious matter.
Following revisions, GBC understands that of the 11 clubs in the national league:
Five remain in favour of the no-confidence vote.
One club voted against.
Two retracted their vote.
Two abstained.
One club did not reply.
Following the vote, several clubs have expressed their support for Mr Robba
In response to GBC questions regarding what motivated the vote, the GFLA claims there has been a general dissatisfaction with Mr Robba’s tenure, and alleges there has been poor leadership and a lack of transparency in this time.
The association describes youth football as being at its lowest ebb, claiming this has led to a record number of players opting to play in Spain instead of locally. It also points to the vacant position of Technical Director, after Desi Curry stepped down in what it calls controversial circumstances.
GBC also approached UEFA for comment on Mr Robba’s administration. In response, we heard that UEFA has always enjoyed an excellent relationship with Ivan Robba in his functions as GFA Legal Director, then as General Secretary, and that he has been instrumental in various initiatives and projects.
Following discussions on governance reforms and recent meetings, UEFA says it is counting on continuing its close collaboration with the GFA and its General Secretary.
GFA President, Michael Llamas told us that he had full confidence both in Mr Robba and the current Board of Directors.
The GFA General Secretary is not elected to their position and as such, Mr Robba can not be voted out by the clubs, although those who support the vote are hoping to apply pressure on the basis of what they have called long-standing issues with the GFA.
The board of the association has replied to GBC questions in its own capacity and not as a representative of all clubs.
The GFLA says what is needed a well-structured association that is open and accountable, and that, with the significant subsidies received from FIFA and UEFA, our children deserve the best infrastructure, coaching and education.
We will bring you more on this story as it develops.
