The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has suspended Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw for five matches and fined him $100,000 following his conduct during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN 2025). The decision was announced on May 30, 2026, after a disciplinary hearing.
Thiaw was sanctioned for violating CAF's code of conduct during Senegal's quarterfinal match against Ivory Coast on February 2, 2026. He was sent off after confronting match officials over a disputed penalty decision. CAF's disciplinary committee found him guilty of 'unsportsmanlike behavior and inciting violence.'
The suspension means Thiaw will miss Senegal's next five competitive matches, including the start of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The fine of $100,000 must be paid within 30 days, with the option to appeal to the CAF Appeals Board.
Senegal's football federation (FSF) has not yet commented on whether it will appeal the sanction. Thiaw, who led Senegal to the CAN 2025 semifinals, has apologized for his actions, stating he 'lost control in the heat of the moment.'
