Official: Sports Ministry Seeks Government Approval To Withdraw National Team from International Competitions

Official: Sports Ministry Seeks Government Approval To Withdraw National Team from International Competitions

Sampson Adedeji

The Ministry of Sports in the Central African Republic has formally requested government approval to withdraw the national football team from international competitions for the next three years, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

This move follows prolonged tensions between the Sports Ministry and the National Football Federation over the appointment of former Cameroon international Rigobert Song as head coach.

The Federation had reportedly favoured hiring a local coach, sparking a power struggle between the two bodies.

On Friday, the ministry presented its proposal to the Council of Ministers, outlining plans to suspend the national team's participation in all international tournaments — including CAF competitions and FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The ministry cited financial concerns, arguing that current international involvement is a misuse of resources.

Instead, the ministry aims to redirect its focus toward grassroots development, improving sports infrastructure, and nurturing young talent at the U-17 and U-20 levels.