FRANCE 24
May 29, 2026
TL;DR
Senegal's coach Pape Thiaw threatened to skip the World Cup over an unrenewed contract and unpaid salary since February, but the football federation denied the claims and the team ultimately departed for the tournament.
“formally denies the unfounded rumors that the national coach had refused to embark for reasons related to the renegotiation of his contract”
— Senegalese Football Federation
“discussions are currently underway to regularize the situation of the Senegalese coach”
— Senegalese Football Federation
1. Contract Dispute Emerges
Reports from Le Soleil newspaper revealed that Senegal's coach Pape Thiaw had been without a renewed contract since February and had not received his salary during that period.
2. Coach's World Cup Threat
Thiaw threatened not to travel with the team to the World Cup in the United States over the unresolved contract renegotiation issue.
3. Federation's Response
The Senegalese Football Federation issued a statement formally denying the rumors, claiming discussions were ongoing to resolve the coach's situation and emphasizing team cohesion.
4. Team Departure
Despite the controversy, Senegal's national team successfully embarked for the United States with coach Pape Thiaw, with preparation matches scheduled before their opening game against France.