Boycott Threat: Cameroonian Clubs Demand Payment of Subsidies

A Compromised Season Launch

Cameroonian football club presidents are on a war footing. As the national championship scheduled for December 2024 approaches, some clubs are threatening not to participate due to a financial dispute with the Cameroon Football Federation (Fécafoot). The problem: the non-payment of all subsidies promised for the previous season, which is fueling the anger of club leaders.

Conditions of Resumption Set by the Clubs

The longest break in the history of the Cameroonian championship, with almost seven months of inactivity, was due to end in late November or early December, according to Fécafoot’s forecasts. However, during the General Assembly of the Association of Elite Clubs of Cameroon (ACEC) on October 11, 2024, the club presidents set as a condition for their participation the payment of the arrears of the subsidy from last season. “No money, no championship” became their watchword.

Tensions Heightened by the New Season

The situation worsened on October 29 when clubs received a request from Fécafoot to sign a marketing charter and a qualification form for sponsors of the 2024-2025 MTN Elite championship, with a deadline of November 8. Several club presidents reacted negatively, believing that it is unthinkable to commit to a new season without having received the regulations of the previous season. They are asking for financial guarantees before signing any document.

A Recurring Financial Crisis in Cameroonian Football

The lack of funding for football in Cameroon is a persistent problem. According to Billy Houto, a sports commentator at SNA, “the lack of funding is chronic” and keeps local football in a vicious circle. Clubs claim to provide the supporting documents required by Fécafoot to release the funds, but payments remain blocked. Discussions are reportedly underway to avoid a chaotic season, although uncertainty still looms.

Conclusion: An Uncertain Future for the Championship

The launch of the Cameroonian championship is seriously compromised by this financial crisis which is shaking the relationship between Fécafoot and the clubs. Without the settlement of arrears, the clubs seem determined to boycott the competition, leaving doubts hanging over the holding of this new season.