The 32nd Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Ordinary Congress has taken place in Vancouver, Canada ahead of the 76th FIFA Congress held at the same location.
Representatives from all eleven OFC Member Associations gathered in North America to discuss the development of football in the Oceania region, reviewing the financial audit and activities from 2025 and the approval of the budget for 2027.
An address by FIFA President Gianni Infantino opened proceedings, followed by words from OFC President Lambert Maltock, with the FIFA President acknowledging the growth in the region.
“Oceania may be the smallest confederation in population, but certainly is one of the biggest in size, and clearly, with the biggest heart,” Mr. Infantino said.
“To organise competitions from the youth level – girls, boys, men’s and women’s, not only on the social side but the professional side with the launch of the Professional league, is a game changer for football in Oceania.”
The FIFA President also paid tribute to the continued collaboration between the world’s governing body and OFC, pledging to continue FIFA support to the fast-growing Confederation.
“Together we are not just uniting Oceania and the world, but together we will achieve fantastic success stories that the world will be proud of,” he said.
“Of course there is much more to do, and what we can do together, but with the base of what OFC have built and the commitment to Oceania football, I can just encourage you to continue this path and assure you that you can count on my full support.”
OFC President Lambert Maltock also saluted the hard work and dedication of the Confederation, that brought to life a brand new professional tournament to the region in the shape of the inaugural OFC Pro League.
“I am immensely proud of the strides we have taken to strengthen football across Oceania,” the OFC President commented.
“This year was defined by ambition, collaboration, and a shared commitment to elevating our game.”
“Our journey toward long-term sustainability and high performance has gained real momentum, and this year stands as a testament to the resilience and vision of our football community.”
The 2026 OFC Activity Report was presented to highlight the activities across the region and achievements made, including the historic launch of the exciting OFC Pro League.
The launch of the league has been a gamechanger for Oceania, and is likely to be a catalyst for transformation, creating professional pathways for our players, coaches, referees, and administrators, and strengthening the entire football ecosystem across all Member Associations.
“The OFC Professional League is more than a competition,” President Maltock said. “It is the missing piece in our football ecosystem. It creates opportunity, raises standards, and provides a genuine professional pathway within our region.
“Already, we are seeing its impact. Clubs are stepping forward with greater ambition. Standards are lifting—on and off the field. And importantly, we are beginning to bridge the gap across our region, giving more players access to a higher level of football.”
The Auditors Report for 2025 revealing OFC’s finances was also presented and approved, before the new Strategic Plan and 2027 Annual Budget was revealed to representatives.
The 32nd Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Ordinary Congress concluded with further remarks from OFC President Lambert Maltock, setting the scene for what is sure to be a bright and prosperous 2027 for the Confederation.
“Long-term sustainability for football in Oceania means building a game that is not only competitive but deeply rooted in our communities,” President Maltock said.
“It means creating clear and professional pathways—for players, coaches, referees, and administrators. And it means bridging the gap between our smallest Member Associations and our more advanced ones, ensuring that we grow together as one region.
“We must now build on the momentum of the OFC Professional League—strengthening its foundations, growing its impact, and ensuring it delivers long-term value for our region.
“We will continue to raise standards in governance and professionalism. We will deepen our investment in development and education, and we will continue to unite our region through football.”
Photo credit: FIFA via Getty Images