Fifa has banned a former Gabonese youth football coach for life after he was found guilty of sexually abusing young players. Patrick Assoumou Eyi, who coached Gabon’s national youth teams for many years, has been accused of abusing multiple boys over his career. This decision comes after a BBC investigation revealed widespread abuse in Gabonese football.
Eyi, who was often referred to as "Capello," was highlighted in a 2023 BBC Africa Eye investigation that uncovered a troubling pattern of abuse in the sport. A former Gabonese international described Eyi as having immense power, able to decide which players made the youth teams, which added to his influence.
Fifpro, the global players’ union, welcomed Fifa’s decision as a positive step but emphasized that many more abusers are still out there. Loic Alves, a legal counsel for Fifpro, stated that while this ban is significant, it is just the beginning of addressing a larger issue within Gabonese football.
Eyi has admitted to charges of raping, grooming, and exploiting young players. These allegations first came to light in a 2021 report by The Guardian. Following that, Fifa’s ethics committee initiated an investigation, which ultimately led to the lifetime ban and a fine of one million Swiss francs (about $1.1 million). Currently, Eyi is in prison.
Fifa’s investigation revealed complaints from at least four male players who alleged that they were abused between 2006 and 2021, with most incidents occurring when they were minors. One victim expressed relief over the ban but also highlighted that this is just a part of a larger problem. He called for a complete dismantling of what he described as a network of predators still operating in the sport.
In 2023, BBC Africa spoke to over 30 witnesses who described a long-standing culture of abuse in Gabonese football. Some victims shared their experiences of being assaulted as teenagers at football camps, with one stating he was abused starting at the age of 14.
The governing bodies, including Fifa and Gabon’s national football federation, have faced criticism for failing to protect young athletes. Both organizations have denied these accusations, but the scrutiny continues as the call for accountability grows. The situation remains a pressing concern for players and advocates seeking justice and reform in the sport.