The Gabonese Football Federation (Fégafoot) has announced the official lifting of the suspension on the national football team, reversing measures that had barred players including Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga from representing their country.
The suspension, imposed by the Gabonese government on January 1 following the team’s elimination at the group stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, marked a tense period for Gabonese football.
It came after the national side’s underwhelming performance in the continental tournament, prompting authorities to intervene.
In a formal statement released on Monday, January 12, Fégafoot confirmed the team’s reinstatement.
“The Gabonese Football Federation informs the national and international sporting public of the lifting this Monday, January 12, 2026, of the government measures that suspended the national team and the exclusion of players Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga following the insufficient results of the national team at the AFCON,” the statement read.
The federation also highlighted steps toward restructuring the technical staff.
“Furthermore, the Minister of Sports invited Fégafoot to take the necessary steps to present him with all the practical details for the selection of a new technical staff…,” the statement continued, reflecting the government’s support in ensuring the national team’s future competitiveness. Fégafoot expressed satisfaction with the resolution, describing it as a “happy outcome of this situation.”
The reinstatement allows Gabon’s international stars to resume duties, providing a morale boost ahead of upcoming qualifiers and friendlies.
Aubameyang, widely regarded as one of Gabon’s most influential players, and Manga, a veteran defensive presence, had been central to the national team’s campaigns and their return is expected to strengthen the squad.
This decision ends a period of uncertainty that had sparked debate among fans, pundits, and sporting authorities, with many urging a focus on long-term development rather than punitive measures.
The reinstatement is seen as a crucial step in rebuilding both morale and performance standards within the team.
Fégafoot’s statement signals a renewed commitment to restoring Gabonese football on the continental stage, underlining plans to appoint a fresh technical team and prepare the squad for forthcoming competitions.
As the national team prepares to regroup, the return of key players and clarity around management offers hope for a more stable and competitive future.
With the suspension lifted, Gabon now looks forward to rebuilding and targeting stronger results in future African and international tournaments.
