Samuel Eto’o Wins Legal Battle Against CAF, Reinstated as Candidate

This ruling, which comes after an intense legal battle, has sent shockwaves through the African football community and among Eto'o’s many fans. The President of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) refused to accept what he saw as an injustice and took the case to the highest sports court.

The decision, signed by Raphaëlle Favre Schnyder, President of the Arbitration Panel, orders CAF to reinstate Samuel Eto'o as an eligible candidate for the upcoming elections. The Extraordinary General Assembly scheduled for March 12 must now include Eto'o’s candidacy.

A Major Judicial Victory

The ruling not only confirms Eto'o’s right to run but also imposes financial penalties on CAF, ordering it to pay 8,000 Swiss francs to Eto'o and FECAFOOT to cover legal fees.

This landmark legal victory reinforces the principle of fairness and adherence to regulations in African football governance. It underscores that even the highest football authorities must abide by the rules. Eto'o can now campaign freely and present his vision for the future of African football.

A Turning Point in African Football Governance

The case of Seidou Mbombo Njoya, Eto’o’s predecessor at FECAFOOT, remains different. His candidacy was rejected due to lack of support from the Cameroon Football Federation, a factor not contested in this ruling. The TAS ruling applies exclusively to Samuel Eto'o.

Now, the African football world eagerly awaits the March 12 elections, which will determine new representatives at FIFA’s Council and CAF’s Executive Committee.