Gabon Lifts Sanctions on National Team Following Afcon Exit
The government of Gabon has rescinded the sanctions it previously imposed on the national football team and striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang following their disappointing exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).
During the tournament held in Morocco, Gabon finished last in Group F, a performance that was described as "disgraceful" by the former Sports Minister, Simplice-Desire Mamboula.
On January 1, Mamboula announced the suspension of the national team, the dismissal of coach Thierry Mouyouma, and the exclusion of Aubameyang and captain Bruno Ecuele Manga from the squad.
However, on Monday, Gabon’s new Sports Minister, Paul Ulrich Kessany, lifted these sanctions, which had the potential to result in the suspension of the Gabonese Football Federation (Fegafoot) by FIFA. The global football governing body has recently adopted a stringent stance against government interference in the management of football associations.
A statement from Fegafoot indicated that Kessany referenced impending deadlines, including the qualifying draw for the 2027 Afcon, in his correspondence with the organization.
"Fegafoot welcomes the positive outcome of the situation," the statement read. It further noted that Kessany has invited Fegafoot to provide him with all necessary details regarding the selection of a new technical staff to succeed Mouyouma.