Ubuesque situation in Senegal. While the Lions of Teranga were initially scheduled to fly this Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. for the United States, where the 2026 World Cup will be played (from June 11 to July 19), the flight was ultimately delayed. The reason? A contractual imbroglio.
According to media information DsportsPape Thiaw would have decided not to travel with his group until his contractual situation was regularized. It must be said that the Senegalese coach saw his contract end last February. Since then, he has been working without receiving a salary while waiting to sign a new lease.
In a press release, the Senegalese Federation (FSF) justified the delay in the departure of Sadio Mané and his partners to the United States by several logistical problems. Furthermore, she categorically denied “ unfounded rumors stating that the national coach refused to board for reasons linked to the renegotiation of his contract. While legitimate contract discussions are ongoing, they have had no impact on the team’s travel schedule. »
Pope Thiaw awaits validation in high places
According to a source close to the Ministry of Sports cited by
Dsportsthe Ministry of Sports would have validated Pape Thiaw’s new contract. All that would be missing is the approval of the President or the Prime Minister. “ It is false to say that the Ministry of Sports blocked Pape Thiaw’s contractexplains this source. If the contract must be validated, this is the responsibility of the President of the Republic and the Prime Minister. This is not the direct responsibility of the ministry. The minister wanted to renew her contract since February and she even wanted a salary increase. »
Pape Thiaw and his players finally left at around 11 p.m. for the United States in a climate of tension. As a reminder, the Lions of Teranga will begin the World Cup on June 16, against the French team.
