The Gabon Football Federation (FEGAFOOT) has lifted sanctions imposed on the national team and key players following Gabon’s disappointing AFCON 2025 campaign.
Background To The Sanctions
Gabon exited the tournament without a point after losing all three Group F matches against Cameroon, Mozambique, and defending champions Ivory Coast. In the immediate aftermath, then Sports Minister Simplice-Désiré Mamboula announced sweeping measures on state television.
These included the indefinite suspension of all national team activities, the dissolution of the entire coaching staff, and the exclusion of senior players Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga from future selection.
Fears Of FIFA Intervention
The government-led decision sparked concerns over possible FIFA sanctions. FIFA maintains a strict stance against government interference in football administration, with the risk that Gabon could have been suspended from international football.
FA Confirms Reversal
In a statement, the Gabon FA confirmed the rollback of the measures.
“The government measures suspending the national team have been lifted, as well as the exclusion of players Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga following the unsatisfactory results of the national team at the Africa Cup of Nations,” the statement read.
Looking Ahead
The association added that newly appointed Sports Minister Paul Ulrich Kessany reversed the decision due to pressing commitments, citing “the urgency of upcoming deadlines, notably the draw for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.”
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