Two rival groups are vying for control of Ethiopia's national federation. The country was suspended in July and later kicked out of qualifying for the 2010 World Cup.

FIFA said representatives of a faction led by Ahmed Yassin could not accept that Ashebir Woldegiorgis was rightfully elected to lead the national federation in January.

FIFA said it "regrets that no solution could be found."

The world body has strict rules protecting elected soccer officials from outside interference. The ban means national teams, officials and referees cannot take part in international soccer.