FAS Appoints Badri Ghent as New General Secretary

The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) has appointed Badri Ghent as the new general secretary, following the resignation of Chew Chun-Liang. This change, effective immediately, was announced on September 1, 2023. Chew served in the role for approximately ten months and departs as FAS continues its search for a head coach for the national team, known as the Lions.

While FAS did not provide specific reasons for Chew’s departure, the organization emphasized Ghent’s extensive experience in football management and operations. As the sporting director of the Lion City Sailors since the club’s establishment in 2020, Ghent played a pivotal role in leading the team to multiple domestic titles, including the Singapore Premier League, Singapore Cup, and Singapore Community Shield. Under his leadership, the Sailors also reached the final of the AFC Champions League Two, marking the first time a Singaporean team achieved this milestone.

FAS highlighted Ghent’s contributions to recruiting high-quality coaching staff and establishing professional standards that have set a benchmark for local football excellence. His prior experience includes becoming the youngest general manager in the history of the Singapore Premier League when he was appointed at Home United in 2017. Previously, he served as the club’s team manager starting in 2014.

FAS President Forrest Li expressed confidence in Ghent’s ability to elevate Singapore football. “Badri has been involved in Singapore football for more than a decade and has a deep understanding of our local football ecosystem,” Li stated. He added that Ghent’s experience in management roles reflects his commitment to raising standards and building robust structures within the organization.

Li also took the opportunity to thank Chew for his contributions during his tenure. “On behalf of the council, I want to thank Chun-Liang for his service and dedication. His professionalism and steady leadership provided stability during an important period,” Li remarked. He expressed best wishes for Chew’s future endeavors.

As Ghent takes on his new role, the Lions are in search of a new head coach after the resignation of Tsutomu Ogura on June 24, 2023. In preparation for upcoming matches, the team is scheduled to compete against Malaysia and Myanmar in September, followed by a double-header against India during the Asian Cup Qualifiers in October.