Senegal’s national team manager, Pape Bouna Thiaw, has called for an immediate end to public fundraising efforts intended to cover his personal disciplinary penalties. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) recently imposed a heavy $100,000 fine and a five-match suspension on the coach following the high-tension 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco. While Thiaw successfully led the Teranga Lions to the continental title, the CAF disciplinary board cited him for “unsporting conduct” after he temporarily withdrew his squad from the pitch to protest a late VAR-awarded penalty.
Supporters launched several crowdfunding initiatives to assist the coach with the financial burden, but Thiaw insists that the public should prioritize more critical social needs. In a heartfelt statement shared with his followers, he redirected the wave of national solidarity toward charitable causes that benefit the vulnerable. This gesture of humility comes as Senegal grapples with the wider administrative fallout of the final, which saw the Fédération Sénégalaise de Football hit with over $615,000 in collective fines for the actions of players, staff, and fans during the chaotic championship match.
The disciplinary sweep by CAF also targeted individual players and the Moroccan federation, resulting in a total penalty pool exceeding $1 million. While the sanctions sparked debate across West Africa, Thiaw’s decision to personally absorb the consequences of the walk-off protest has further solidified his reputation as a leader of principle. The coach now aims to close this chapter and focus on the upcoming international window, though he will observe his five-game ban from the stands.
Pape Bouna Thiaw addressed the Senegalese public on Instagram to clarify his position on the donations: “People of Senegal, my family. Your solidarity since the announcement of the sanctions goes straight to my heart. Thank you for the love you show me every day. I humbly ask you not to organise fundraisers in my name. While I understand and appreciate this outpouring of generosity, I invite you to redirect these funds to more urgent causes, for the benefit of those who truly need them.”
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