France denies visa to Gabon’s U16 football team

The French Consulate General in Gabon’s capital Libreville has turned down visa applications of the country’s U16 football team expected to take part in a championship in the European country on the grounds that there are fears that the players disappear and fail to return home at the end of the tournament.

Gabon’s football association Fegafoot reportedly informed the players’ parents about the decision by the diplomatic mission.

The team was expected to join other outfits in France for the Montaigu Tournament. Also known as Mondial Minimes, Montaigu Tournament is a yearly international football competition that is contested by under-16 national teams and clubs.

As result of the consulate’s decision, the Fegafoot, which argued that it has taken all precautions to ensure the return of the players, has cancelled its participation.