Chinese football's governing body has officially severed links with the country's sports watchdog, ending its long maligned involvement with the administrative body.

The entrance of the Chinese Football Association is seen in this undated photo.??[Photo/Chinanews.com]

Under a new plan, announced in Beijing on Monday, the Chinese Football Association (CFA) will leave the State General Administration of Sports, the country's sports ministry, gaining autonomy over its institute structure, working plan, budget, human resources and international exchanges.

The restructured CFA will serve as both a public benefit organization and the sport's administrative body.

Officials who formerly served on the CFA under the ministry will have no government status.

An overall plan for China's football reform was released in March aiming at ending government meddling in the sport.