Senegal deny World Cup journey delay is because of coach dispute | World Cup 2026 Information

Senegal had been stripped of the AFCON title after a mid-game boycott of the ultimate and now face turbulent World Cup begin.

Studies that Senegal coach Pape ‌Thiaw is refusing to journey to the US for World ⁠Cup preparations ⁠are false, in keeping with the Senegalese Soccer Federation FSF.

Information reviews in Africa claimed Thiaw was concerned in a contract dispute with the ⁠FSF after his deal expired in February and that his frustrations over negotiations had been holding up journey on Wednesday, prompting a departure ⁠delay of almost eight hours.

The FSF stated these rumours had been unfaithful and that logistical points – flight permits and visas – had been behind the delay.

“The Senegalese Soccer Federation (FSF) needs to tell the nationwide and worldwide public of the circumstances surrounding the ‌departure of the nationwide soccer crew to the US, in an effort to set up the reality of the information in response to misguided info relayed by sure media retailers and on social networks,” a press release stated.

“The FSF categorically denies the unfounded rumours suggesting that the nationwide crew supervisor refused to journey on grounds associated to the renegotiation of his ⁠contract. While legit contractual discussions are ongoing, they’ve ⁠had no influence on the crew’s journey schedule.

“These minor logistical setbacks by no means undermine the cohesion and dedication of the gamers, the technical workers and the federation. The group ⁠stays totally united because the Lions strategy the essential fixtures awaiting them on American soil. The FSF ⁠will make sure that the calm environment needed for ⁠wonderful preparation is maintained.”

Thiaw, 45, turned Senegal’s head coach in December 2024 and led the Teranga Lions to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, a event that completed in January.

The victory in opposition to Morocco within the remaining was marred by a mid-game boycott because the gamers and training workers left the sector in protest in opposition to a refereeing determination, specifically the award of a penalty to their opponents in damage time.

After returning to the sector, following a 14-minute stoppage, Morocco ahead Brahim Diaz missed the ensuing spot kick and Senegal went on to win the match 1-0 in additional time.

The trophy was awarded to Morocco following an attraction with the Confederation of African Soccer (CAF). Senegal have despatched their very own attraction to the Courtroom of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in consequence, however a ruling could take a 12 months to be reached.

This shall be Senegal’s fourth look at a World Cup, beginning in Group I of the 2026 version. They ‌will face France on June 16 and Norway on June 22 at East Rutherford, New Jersey, and Iraq in Toronto on June 26.

They’re additionally on account of play two friendlies previous to the World Cup – beginning on Sunday in opposition to the US at Charlotte, North Carolina, after which on June 9 in opposition to Saudi Arabia at San Antonio, Texas.