FIFA, the global governing body for football, has handed a six-month ban to Samuel Eto’o, President of the Cameroonian Football Federation (Fecafoot). The suspension, effective immediately, was confirmed by FIFA’s disciplinary committee on Monday, September 30, 2024.
Eto’o was found guilty of breaching fair play regulations and misconduct involving players, prompting this decision. As a result, he will be prohibited from participating in any football-related activities, including attending matches involving Cameroon’s men’s and women’s national teams, during the suspension period.
This ruling marks a significant moment for Cameroonian football, as Eto’o has played a key role in the development of the sport in his home country.
Why did FIFA ban Samuel Eto’o?
Samuel Eto’o has been sanctioned by FIFA for breaching two articles of the organization’s disciplinary code. The violation took place during the Under-20 Women’s World Cup round of 16 match between Cameroon and Brazil on September 11, 2024. Brazil secured a 3-1 victory after extra time in that encounter.
According to an official statement, Eto’o breached articles concerning offensive behavior, fair play violations, and misconduct involving players and officials. The incident occurred during the game in Bogota, Colombia, where Eto’o was in attendance. FIFA’s disciplinary action underscores the importance of maintaining professionalism and integrity in football at all levels.
“The sanction was imposed in connection with the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup™ round-of-16 match between Brazil and Cameroon played in Bogotá, Colombia, on 11 September 2024. The ban imposed on Mr. Eto’o prevents him from attending men’s and women’s matches involving (Cameroon) teams of all categories and age groups. Mr Eto’o has been notified today, the date on which the sanction comes into force.
FIFA announced that the sanction against Samuel Eto’o will take effect immediately, confirming that he has already been notified of the decision. As a result, Eto’o will miss Cameroon’s upcoming matches, starting with their crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualification double-header against Kenya in October 2024.
This ban prevents Eto’o from being involved in any football-related activities, further impacting his ability to support the national team during these important fixtures.
