Grassroots football across Ireland is unlikely to return in early March.
That is according to FAI chief executive Jonathan Hill who fears the suspension will extend beyond March 5.
Government set that date for the end of Level 5 lockdown, but it’s already an extension of the initial February date and is likely to be pushed back again.
As it stands, only League of Ireland and Women’s National League teams have the green light to resume training ahead of their respective leagues starting next month.
But all levels of amateur and schoolboy football have been grounded across the country since late December.
FAI boss Hill said: “Currently there can be no grassroots matches or even training in any situation.
“We thank all of our players and volunteers for their adherence to the Government guidelines.
“We know how frustrating it is not to be playing the game we love at the moment but we all understand the wider need to control the pandemic.
“Being realistic, it is also very likely to be the case that this situation will extend some time beyond March 5th as the Government plans its overall approach.
“As such, we continue to plan carefully for the point at which we are able at all levels of our sport to look at a return to play.
“Delivering a safe and controlled environment for football during the pandemic is obviously key.
“We want football back as soon as we can. I can promise all our stakeholders that as soon as we get the green light, they will be back on the pitch.”
The FAI remains in negotiations with Government over financial support for the 2021 season, both at League of Ireland and grassroots level.
