Former Cameroon national team coach Rigobert Song has launched legal proceedings against the Cameroonian government, demanding nearly 200 million CFA francs in unpaid salaries and contractual compensation following his departure from the Indomitable Lions.
Song, whose tenure as head coach ended after Cameroon’s underwhelming campaign at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), argues that he has not received the full amount owed to him.
His contract was not renewed after the tournament, leaving the former captain seeking financial redress.
To represent his case, Song has enlisted the services of the Brigitte Diffouo law firm, which specializes in labor law and administrative disputes.
His legal team is preparing to take the matter to court, highlighting what has been a persistent issue in Cameroonian football—the financial mismanagement and payment disputes between the country’s football administration and its coaches.
Breakdown of Song’s financial claims
The 200 million CFA francs claimed by Song reportedly account for several months of unpaid wages, as well as bonuses and compensation linked to his contract.
This is not the first time such a dispute has arisen in Cameroon’s football administration.
Several former national team coaches have previously complained about delayed payments and contract termination issues.
As one of the most iconic figures in Cameroonian and African football history, Song enjoys widespread support from fans and football observers.
Many believe the government should honor its financial obligations, while others see the legal battle as another indication of the administrative shortcomings that continue to plague Cameroonian football.
Potential repercussions and FIFA involvement
Cameroonian authorities have yet to make an official statement on the matter.
However, if the dispute remains unresolved, it could be escalated to international arbitration bodies such as FIFA or the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Such a move could put additional pressure on Cameroon’s football governing body to resolve its financial issues in a transparent manner.
This legal action comes amid ongoing tensions between the Cameroon Football Federation (Fecafoot) and national team coaches.
Current Fecafoot president Samuel Eto’o, who has faced criticism over his management style, may find himself drawn into yet another controversy as he continues his efforts to reform the country’s football landscape.
The outcome of Song’s legal challenge could set a precedent for future contractual disputes within Cameroonian football, with implications for how financial agreements are handled moving forward.
