Chaos in Senegal Camp as Coach Pape Thiaw Refuses to Travel Over Contract Dispute

Senegal’s preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup have reportedly descended into chaos after head coach Pape Thiaw refused to board the team’s flight to the United States over unresolved contract issues.

Reports from Senegal claim the Lions of Teranga’s departure was delayed following growing tension between Thiaw, the Ministry of Sports, and the Senegalese Football Federation regarding his future with the national team.

Thiaw’s contract is understood to have expired in February 2026, with reports further alleging that the coach has continued working without receiving payment while awaiting an official decision on his situation.

The standoff reportedly escalated shortly before the team’s scheduled departure, with Thiaw insisting that clarity must first be provided regarding his contract status before he could continue with the squad.

According to reports, Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye was forced to intervene following hours of tension and emergency discussions involving key stakeholders.

Following the intervention, Thiaw is now reportedly expected to travel with the team and lead Senegal at the World Cup despite the unresolved issues surrounding his contract.

Senegal will now hope to quickly restore calm and refocus on football as preparations continue ahead of their World Cup campaign.