The Confederation of African Football (Caf) has slapped Samuel Eto’o, the president of the Cameroonian Football Federation (Fecafoot), with a hefty $200,000 fine for violating its ethics code. However, a separate probe into match-fixing allegations has been dismissed due to insufficient evidence.
The disciplinary committee determined that Eto’o had “seriously violated the principles of ethics, integrity, and sportsmanship” by inking a deal with betting company 1XBET. This company sponsors multiple Cameroonian football leagues and national teams, placing Eto’o in direct conflict with Fifa’s regulations, which forbid individuals under its code from engaging in football-related betting activities.
Lawyers Set to Appeal
Eto’o’s legal team is gearing up to appeal the decision, although it’s unlikely to calm the storm surrounding his leadership at Fecafoot. Previously, a group representing amateur clubs in Cameroon had already called for his resignation, citing his ties with 1XBET and alleged “grave irregularities” within the federation.
Caf also scrutinized the match-fixing allegations stemming from a leaked phone call between Eto’o and Valentine Nkwain, president of Victoria United. Despite the uproar, the disciplinary panel found insufficient proof to press charges. This verdict is not expected to alleviate the existing tensions within Cameroonian football circles.
Calls for Accountability
A coalition of administrators, including former Fecafoot members and Cameroon’s Professional Football League president, has written to Caf president Patrice Motsepe and Fifa chief Gianni Infantino.
They are urging an expedited investigation and have expressed concerns about potential sanctions, including a lifetime ban for Eto’o. Over the past two years, they claim that abuses have driven many stakeholders away from the sport.
Leadership Under Fire
Eto’o’s tenure as Fecafoot president has been anything but smooth, and this latest ruling is unlikely to mend his tarnished reputation.
The Cameroonian football community eagerly awaits the outcome of the appeal process, hoping it will bring much-needed transparency and accountability to the sport’s governance.
