The Jamaican Football Federation (JFF) has reappointed Hubert Busby Jr as the coach of its women’s national team, despite FIFA’s Ethics Committee not clearing him of serious misconduct allegations. Busby returned to his role in May, two and a half years after being suspended by the JFF following accusations from a former player that he made sexual advances towards her while coaching the Vancouver Whitecaps women’s team in 2010 and 2011.

In a media release announcing Busby’s return, the JFF stated that “after careful consideration and due process, our technical committee has recommended the immediate reappointment of Hubert Busby as head coach of the Senior Women’s National Team.” The federation claimed that FIFA had cleared Busby, but FIFA has since confirmed to the Guardian that its Ethics Committee closed a preliminary investigation without reaching any judgment and may reopen the investigation if new information arises.

Busby told Jamaican media that “it is important now to turn that page and sit in front of you knowing that the vindication is there.” He also referred to his experience as part of “God’s plan.” However, FIFA sources revealed that the investigation was closed due to the statute of limitations rather than Busby being cleared. Busby’s lawyer declined to comment on the matter, but Busby has consistently denied any misconduct.

The general secretary of the JFF, Dennis Chung, declined to provide evidence that Busby had been cleared by FIFA. A JFF spokesperson referred all questions regarding Busby’s return to FIFA. The allegations against Busby were made by former Vancouver Whitecaps player Malloree Enoch, who claimed that Busby attempted to solicit sex from her during a recruitment process in 2011. Enoch stated that she was never interviewed by FIFA or the JFF regarding her claims.

In a statement to the Guardian, Enoch expressed her disappointment that Busby is back coaching women’s teams. She emphasized that there is evidence to support her allegations and called for a proper investigation. Enoch also noted that governing bodies often protect themselves and their coaches rather than the players.

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