Samuel Eto’o fined $200k after match-fixing allegations

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has fined Cameroon FA President Samuel Eto’o $200,000 for ethical breaches.

Eto’o was accused of match-fixing and violating ethical principles.

After a thorough investigation, the CAF Disciplinary Board found insufficient evidence to convict Eto’o and Valentin Nkwain of match manipulation.

However, Eto’o was found guilty of breaching Article 2, paragraph 3 of the CAF Statutes by signing a Brand Ambassador contract with the company 1XBET in exchange for remuneration.

A CAF statement released on Thursday read: “The Confédération Africaine de Football (“CAF”) Disciplinary Board sat on the matter of Fédération Camerounaise de Football (‘’FECAFOOT’’) President Mr Samuel Eto’o Fils.

“Mr Eto’o was facing charges of alleged manipulation of football matches and violating the principles of ethics and integrity. The Disciplinary Board ruled that as it stands, there is insufficient proof to find Mr Samuel Eto’o Fils and Mr Valentin Nkwain guilty of match manipulation.

“However, the Disciplinary Board found Mr Eto’o to have seriously violated the principles of ethics, integrity and sportsmanship as provided in Article 2 paragraph 3 of the CAF Statutes by signing a Brand Ambassador contract with the company 1XBET in exchange for remuneration and consequently fined Mr Eto’o an amount of 200,000 USD.”

Samuel Eto’o had also expressed his intention to resign as President after The Indomitable Lions’ failed 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign, urging the members of the Executive Committee to consider doing the same “in all conscience.”

However, following heated discussions and intense deliberation, the members unanimously voted to reject Eto’o’s resignation, reaffirming their confidence in his leadership to continue rebuilding and developing Cameroonian soccer.

Eto’o, a former Barcelona and Chelsea striker, has had an illustrious football career before becoming Cameroon FA president three years ago. Despite the fine, he remains a prominent figure in African football.

source: 3 News