FECAFOOT: Eto’o Appeal Countdown Starts Only After CAF Provides Full Ruling

The Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT) has clarified that the deadline to appeal the disciplinary sanction imposed on its president, Samuel Eto’o, will only begin once the Confederation of African Football (CAF) formally communicates the complete reasons for its decision.

In a statement, FECAFOOT said CAF had outlined the appeal procedure but confirmed that the countdown for lodging any appeal would not start until the detailed ruling is officially issued. While welcoming the clarification, the federation expressed surprise and concern over the handling of the case.

CAF issued the sanctions against Eto’o less than two hours after his disciplinary hearing but, according to FECAFOOT, has not provided a clear timeline for releasing the written reasons behind its decision. The federation warned that such delays risk harming the reputation of its president.

Eto’o was sanctioned for breaching fair play principles following an incident during the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final between Cameroon and Morocco. The former Barcelona and Inter Milan striker was seen angrily confronting Moroccan Football Federation president Fouzi Lekjaa and CAF president Patrice Motsepe over refereeing decisions after the match.

CAF’s Disciplinary Jury found Eto’o guilty of violating Article 2(3) of the CAF Statutes and Article 82 of the CAF Disciplinary Code, handing him a four-match suspension and a $20,000 fine.

FECAFOOT also highlighted what it described as recurring issues with CAF’s disciplinary processes, recalling a previous case in which it took over nine months to receive the full ruling and hearing schedule. The federation said such delays undermine confidence in football governance across Africa.

The Cameroonian body insisted it would continue to push for fair procedures, reasonable timelines, and effective appeal mechanisms. FECAFOOT added that it remains vigilant in defending the integrity of its leadership and the credibility of football administration on the continent.