FAS president Bernard Tan will not seek re-election, says decision is for the 'good' of Singapore football

SINGAPORE: Incumbent Football Association of Singapore (FAS) president Bernard Tan said on Saturday (Mar 29) that he will not be seeking re-election.

Speaking to CNA, Mr Tan said that the decision was not easy and one made with a “heavy heart”.

“I’ve repeatedly said that I’m not married to this job, and I will always do what’s good for Singapore football,” he added.

“It’s been a distinct privilege to serve as the president of the FAS. I know some people will be disappointed in my decision, and to these people, I apologise, but … I believe that my decision is for the good of Singapore football.”

Mr Forrest Li, the billionaire founder of tech giant Sea and chairman of Singapore Premier League (SPL) club Lion City Sailors, has announced his intention to run for the FAS' top position.

Without naming Mr Li, Mr Tan said that "disruptive change" in local football needs a “huge injection of resources”.

“Having known that there’s a candidate that’s going to offer a possibility of a disruptive change to the ecosystem, I want to free the way for the delegates of FAS to decide,” he added.

FAS had earlier this month called for the election of council members for a four-year term from 2025 to 2029.

The election will take place during an Extraordinary Congress on Apr 28, said FAS. Its annual congress usually takes place in the third quarter of the year.

An announcement will be made on Apr 18 on the candidates who have qualified to contest.

Mr Tan said that he is prepared to take up other posts if called upon.

"I remain a fan of Singapore football, of the Lions and Lionesses. I am prepared to remain connected to the ecosystem and will contribute if wanted. But for this round, it will not be as president of FAS," he said.

Tan has been in his post