By Washira Helene
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has confirmed the decision of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) not to grant a licence to Bamboutos de Mbouda. The decision means that Bamboutos will not be able to participate in the 2023–2024 season of the Cameroonian Elite One League.
Bamboutos had appealed FECAFOOT’s decision, arguing that they had met all of the requirements for a licence. However, the CAS ruled in favour of FECAFOOT, stating that Bamboutos had not met the financial requirements for a licence.
The decision is a blow to Bamboutos, who are one of the most successful clubs in Cameroon. They have won the Elite One League on three occasions and have also reached the final of the CAF Confederation Cup.
The decision is also a tough one for FECAFOOT to have taken, given that they are under pressure to improve the standards of football in Cameroon. The federation has been criticised for its financial mismanagement and for its inability to prevent violence at matches.
The CAS decision is going to instill a renewed sense of confidence in Fecafoot’s ongoing endeavours to uplift the state of football in the country.
The CAS ruling, which favoured Fecafoot, has provided much-needed validation for the federation’s efforts and signifies that they are moving in the right direction. This decision comes as a welcome boost for Fecafoot, as they strive to implement various measures aimed at improving the overall landscape of football in Cameroon.
With this favourable outcome, Fecafoot can now proceed with its plans and initiatives with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. The CAS decision serves as a testament to the federation’s commitment to fostering positive change and progress within the sport. By receiving this vote of confidence from the CAS, Fecafoot can now forge ahead with its ambitious agenda, which includes enhancing the infrastructure, developing grassroots programmes, and nurturing young talent.
The federation has expressed its determination to take decisive action to ensure that Cameroon football regains the glory of the yesteryears. The federation’s resolve has been strengthened, prompting a commitment to implement stringent measures to ensure that all clubs meet the necessary requirements for licencing in the coming years.
