The Senegalese Football Federation has formally responded to the sanctions and fines imposed by the Confederation of African Football following the chaotic scenes that marred the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco. In a signed communiqué released on January 31 in Dakar, the FSF confirmed it has accepted the disciplinary measures handed down by CAF after Senegal’s dramatic 1–0 victory in Rabat.
The statement was issued after CAF’s Disciplinary Jury delivered Decision DC23315 on January 28, 2026, addressing incidents that occurred during and after the final. According to the FSF, the federation has acknowledged the ruling and decided not to pursue any appeal against the sporting and financial sanctions imposed on the association, its officials, players and supporters.
“The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) hereby informs national and international public opinion that it has officially taken note of Decision DC23315, delivered on 28 January 2026 by the Disciplinary Jury of the Confederation of African Football (CAF),” the statement said.
“After reviewing the said decision, the FSF notified the continental body of its decision not to lodge an appeal against the sporting and financial sanctions imposed on it. This waiver of appeal procedures also applies to the individual disciplinary measures directed at: The Head Coach of the national team, Mr. Pape Bouna Thiaw; National team players, Mr. Ismaïla Sarr and Mr. Iliman Cheikh Baroy Ndiaye.”
The federation further confirmed that it would bear the full financial burden of the fines issued as part of the ruling. “In accordance with the provisions of Article 91.4 of the CAF Disciplinary Code, the Senegalese Football Federation confirms that it assumes full financial responsibility for the fines imposed on its association, its technical staff, as well as its players,” the communiqué added.
While accepting the sanctions, the FSF maintained its commitment to defending its interests within football’s regulatory structures, stressing that it would continue to operate within CAF’s statutes. “Remaining faithful to its guiding principles, the FSF reaffirms its determination to defend its legitimate rights and interests within football’s governing institutions. However, it intends to carry out its actions in strict compliance with its statutory obligations, thereby contributing to the promotion of CAF regulations, the integrity of the game, and the advancement of African football.”
The response follows days in which CAF handed down heavy punishments in relation to the final, which was played on January 18, 2025, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Despite Senegal securing a historic 1–0 win, the match descended into disorder late in stoppage time when Morocco were awarded a penalty.
Moments earlier, referee controversy had already sparked anger in the Senegal camp after a foul was given against Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi shortly before Ismaïla Sarr headed the ball into the net. Incensed by the officiating, head coach Pape Thiaw instructed his players to leave the pitch after the penalty decision, triggering chaotic scenes inside the stadium.
The match was delayed for approximately 17 minutes before Senegal forward Sadio Mané intervened, persuading his teammates to return to the field so the game could be concluded. CAF later ruled that the conduct of Senegal’s bench and players constituted unsporting behaviour and brought the game into disrepute.
As a result, Thiaw was handed a five match ban and fined $100,000 for his role in the incident. Senegal forwards Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaïla Sarr were each suspended for two matches for unsporting behaviour towards the referee. The FSF was also hit with a cumulative fine of $615,000, contributing to a total sanction bill of nearly £1m issued by CAF following the final.
Despite the severity of the penalties, Senegal’s governing body has opted to draw a line under the incident, accept responsibility and move forward, reaffirming its commitment to discipline, regulatory compliance and the long-term growth of African football.
