The Minister of Sports in the Central African Republic, Héritier Doneng, has proposed a three-year suspension of the national football team from international competitions due to a string of poor results in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The decision follows disappointing performances, including a 4-1 loss to Madagascar and a goalless draw with Mali. Earlier this year, the Sports Ministry tried to appoint former Cameroon coach Rigobert Song, but the Football Federation rejected the move, naming local coach Eloge Enza-Yamissi instead.
After a meeting on Saturday, Doneng announced the suspension request, citing poor returns on government investment.
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“Despite the funds allocated by the government, the national A team’s results are taking us further from World Cup qualification,” Doneng said.
“With our limited resources, I am requesting the suspension of the national team from CAF and FIFA competitions for three years.”
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The Minister said the focus would shift to youth development, school sports, and infrastructure, including better support for the U17 and U20 squads.
However, the proposed suspension could trigger sanctions from FIFA, which has previously warned against government interference in football matters.
In May, the Central African Football Federation sought FIFA’s advice, highlighting tensions between the sports ministry and the federation.
