The Gabonese government has officially lifted the measures that had suspended the country’s senior national football team, the Panthers, following their disappointing performance at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In a statement released on Monday, January 12, 2026, the Gabonese Football Federation (FEGAFOOT) confirmed that the restrictions placed on the national team, as well as the sidelining of senior players Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga, have been withdrawn.
Read the full statement here in English:
PANTHERS: GOVERNMENT MEASURES LIFTED
The Gabonese Football Federation (FEGAFOOT) informs the national and international sporting public of the lifting, on Monday, January 12, 2026, of the government measures that had suspended the national team, as well as the sidelining of players Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga, following the national team’s unsatisfactory results at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In his letter to FEGAFOOT, the Minister of Sports, Paul Ulrich Kessany, highlighted the urgency of upcoming deadlines, particularly the draw for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Furthermore, the Minister of Sports invited FEGAFOOT to take the necessary steps in order to present all the practical arrangements for the selection of a new technical staff.”
FEGAFOOT welcomes the happy resolution of this situation.
Done in Owendo, on January 12, 2026
The Executive Committee
The sanctions were imposed in the aftermath of Gabon’s unsatisfactory showing at the AFCON, a situation that sparked widespread debate within the country’s football circles.
According to FEGAFOOT, the decision follows correspondence from the Minister of Sports, Paul Ulrich Kessany, who emphasised the urgency of upcoming engagements, particularly the draw for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Sports Minister has also urged the football federation to take the necessary steps to outline the practical arrangements for appointing a new technical team, as Gabon looks to reset and refocus ahead of future competitions.
FEGAFOOT welcomed what it described as a positive resolution to the situation, expressing optimism as preparations resume for upcoming international commitments.
With the suspension lifted, attention now turns to rebuilding the Panthers and setting a clear technical direction as Gabon eyes a stronger showing on the continental stage.
