Togo Football Federation apologises after Patrice Neveu press conference incident

The Federation Togolaise de Football (FTF) has apologised to journalists after a tense incident involving Togo head coach Patrice Neveu at a news conference in Kegue on Tuesday, 3 November.

FTF president Colonel Guy Kossi Akpovy addressed the situation later that evening, just hours after the press conference ended in an angry exchange. He expressed his “sincere regrets” and apologised to members of the media, particularly those who regularly cover the federation’s activities.

“The press is an essential partner of football,” Akpovy said. “You have the right to ask questions, including the most difficult ones, to request clarification and to carry out your profession in an atmosphere of respect and consideration.”

The federation president said he hoped the incident would not damage relations between the media and those involved in Togolese football. His comments were intended to ease tensions after the confrontation at the end of Neveu’s briefing.

The incident happened when the coach was questioned about his objectives with the Eperviers. Neveu, who was unhappy with the question, moved towards the journalist who had asked it before members of his coaching staff and other reporters intervened to hold him back.

The episode comes only days before the Eperviers begin their preparations for a double confrontation with Algeria. Akpovy used his statement to call for dialogue and collective support for the national team ahead of the upcoming gathering.

“More than ever, our football needs you, your commitment and your support,” he concluded in a message directed at media professionals.