Senegal Football Federation faces ministerial probe after World Cup exit

Senegal was eliminated in the round of 16 at the 2026th FIFA World Cup, losing 3‑2 to Belgium. Shortly after the defeat, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) dismissed head coach Pape Thiaw. The dismissal followed a months‑long salary dispute in which Thiaw demanded a raise from about €30,000 to over €76,000 per month; the parties eventually agreed on roughly €46,000, but the conflict damaged trust between the coach and the federation.

The FSF has also come under fire for failing to secure medical insurance for the national team and staff during the tournament, leaving players such as goalkeeper Édouard Mendy to pay for their own treatment after injuries. In response, Senegal’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Djirèye Clotilde Coly, has sent formal letters to the federation demanding a detailed technical and financial report on the World Cup campaign, clarification of any severance payments owed to Thiaw, and an audit of the federation’s handling of the event. The ministry has ordered the FSF to cease public communications until the issues are resolved.