Central African Republic: Standoff continues between federation and government over Rigobert Song

A month and a half has passed since the government of Central African Republic, through acts by the country’s Ministry of Youth, Sports and Civic Education as well as the nation’s president, announced Cameroonian football legend Rigobert Song as the new coach of the national team.

However, in a situation seen in other African nations with football administration, this appointment was not approved by the Central African Football Federation (FCA) leading to an ongoing standoff between the two entities. This week the dispute came into the public eye again when the Ministry held a ceremony where Song signed his contract to become coach. No representatives from the FCA were in attendance by choice.

Song signed a two-year contract with a salary reported to be around $7,337 per month but questions remain regarding whether his appointment will come to fruition. It appears that the government is moving forward with Song as the coach of Les Fauves but the FCA continues to maintain that Eloge Enza Yamissi is still the head coach. The former national team midfielder has been operating in a caretaker role since October.

In its announcement, the Ministry stated that Song’s mission will be to qualify Les Fauves for its first ever appearance at a major international competition. Regarding the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, reaching the finals remains a mountainous task. Les Fauves are five points off the pace in Group I with four teams above them.

2026 World Cup Qualifying: Group I table through four matches

If everything moves forward as the government desires, Song will lead Les Fauves in two crucial matches later this month. Central African Republic face Madagascar on March 19 before taking on Mali five days later with both matches taking place at the Stade Larbi Zouali in Casablanca, Morocco. For his part, Song is moving forward with the assumption that things will be sorted out for him to prepare Les Fauves for the March qualifying fixtures based on his social media statement.