The Gabonese government has suspended the national football team following a disappointing campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The government also banned Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga from international duty until further notice.

The decision comes amid heavy criticism of the Panthers’ performances and growing concerns over deep-rooted structural problems in Gabonese football.

Gabon finished bottom of Group F after losing all three matches against Cameroon, Mozambique and Côte d’Ivoire, with a 3–2 defeat to the Ivorians on December 31 confirming their early elimination.

Their failure to secure a single point meant they missed out on qualification for the Round of 16, marking one of Gabon’s poorest outings in recent AFCON history.

The group-stage collapse sparked widespread backlash from fans, pundits and former internationals, many of whom questioned the team’s tactical approach, squad readiness and overall preparation for the tournament.

According to The Athletic, the government described Gabon’s AFCON showing as “dishonourable” and cited long-standing weaknesses within the country’s football structure.

As part of the sweeping measures, the technical crew has been dissolved and all national team activities suspended. The announcement was made in a statement read on national television by the interim minister for sports.

“Gabon’s national team has been suspended by the government until further notice after they were eliminated from the group stage of the Africa Cup of Nations,” The Athletic FC posted on X.

“Marseille striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Gabon captain Bruno Ecuele Manga have been banned from selection, while the coaching staff has been dissolved.”

Gabon ended the tournament rooted to the bottom of Group F after losing all three of their matches. (BusinessDay)

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