The claims, detailed in an investigative report, allege widespread dysfunction within the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) delegation during the tournament in the United States, raising questions about the management of the national team both on and off the pitch.
Coach’s contract allegedly signed hours before opener
One of the report’s most striking claims concerns head coach Pape Thiaw, whose contract was reportedly not finalised until just five hours before Senegal’s opening World Cup match against Norway.
According to the investigation, the prolonged uncertainty created significant tension inside the camp, with Thiaw allegedly considering refusing to take charge before an agreement was eventually reached shortly before kick-off.
Officials accused of prioritising social engagements
The investigation also alleges that several senior federation officials spent the early stages of the tournament attending lavish social events rather than focusing on team affairs.
Members of the delegation reportedly attended gala dinners, consumed expensive vintage alcohol and received gifts while incurring substantial expenses during their stay in the United States.
The report further claims some officials were accompanied by what it described as “gallant company” during the tournament.
Relatives and influencers reportedly joined delegation
According to the investigation, certain federation officials invited family members and social media influencers to join the official delegation, a move said to have surprised several members of the playing squad.
Players reportedly observed the developments in silence as concerns grew over the atmosphere surrounding the team during one of football’s biggest competitions.
Discipline concerns inside team camp
The report also raises concerns over discipline within the Senegal camp.
Hotel staff allegedly complained about the behaviour of some members of the delegation, while several players were reportedly left without adequate supervision, ordering fast food deliveries and leaving the team hotel without oversight.
Questions over FIFA ticket sales
The investigation further alleges irregularities involving FIFA match tickets.
According to the report, tickets originally obtained for around $60 were allegedly resold for approximately $350 each.
However, the investigation states that it has not established where the proceeds from the alleged sales ultimately went, and no public evidence has yet identified who may have benefited financially.
Government intervention reported
The allegations have reportedly attracted the attention of Senegal’s presidency.
According to the investigation, a presidential envoy travelled to the United States during the tournament to assess the situation, while a formal report is now being prepared.
Federation officials, along with head coach Pape Thiaw, are reportedly expected to be questioned upon their return as authorities seek to establish the facts surrounding the allegations.
No official response
Neither the Senegalese Football Federation nor Pape Thiaw had publicly responded to the allegations at the time of publication.
The claims surfaced shortly after Senegal’s World Cup campaign ended in heartbreaking fashion, with the Teranga Lions surrendering a two-goal lead before suffering a 3-2 defeat to Belgium in the Round of 32.
If substantiated, the allegations could trigger significant scrutiny of the federation’s governance and its management of one of Senegal’s most important international football campaigns.
