Senegal coach Pape Bouna Thiaw has called on fans to stop organising fundraisers in his name following sanctions imposed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) after the 2025 AFCON final in Morocco. The coach, who led Senegal to victory in a dramatic final, has expressed gratitude for the support he has received from the nation but emphasised that such generosity should be redirected to causes that benefit those in genuine need.
CAF handed Thiaw a five-match suspension and fined him $100,000 for what the disciplinary board described as “unsporting conduct” and bringing the game into disrepute. The sanctions were linked to controversial scenes in the final, when Thiaw ordered his players off the pitch in protest against a late match decision. Play eventually resumed, and Senegal secured victory in extra time, claiming the championship.
The disciplinary measures came after a thorough review by CAF of events surrounding the heated final between Senegal and Morocco. Officials noted that while Senegal ultimately won the match, the actions of Thiaw and certain members of his staff constituted a breach of CAF regulations, prompting the imposition of both personal and team sanctions.
In a heartfelt message to his supporters, Thiaw acknowledged the overwhelming solidarity he has received since the sanctions were announced. “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,” he wrote on Instagram. His words conveyed both appreciation and humility in light of the controversy.
However, Thiaw made it clear that he does not wish for his personal situation to become a focal point for public fundraising. “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,” he added, signalling his desire to maintain the focus on broader community needs.
The incident at the AFCON final began when a late referee decision sparked frustration among Senegal’s technical team. In protest, Thiaw instructed his players to leave the field temporarily, creating tension both in the stadium and in the wider footballing community. CAF later deemed the action to be an unsporting display that brought the game into disrepute.
CAF’s disciplinary decisions extended beyond the coach. Players from both Senegal and Morocco received bans for conduct deemed inappropriate during and after the final. The confederation’s ruling emphasised that the integrity of the sport must be upheld, regardless of the stakes or emotional intensity of a championship match.
In addition to individual penalties, CAF imposed financial sanctions on both national football federations involved. Senegal’s football body was fined a total of approximately $615,000 for improper conduct by supporters, players, and staff, reflecting the organisation’s responsibility in ensuring disciplined behaviour throughout the tournament.
Moroccan players and officials were also sanctioned as part of the disciplinary process. CAF detailed various fines and suspensions, noting that both federations bore responsibility for controlling the conduct of their teams and staff. The rulings serve as a reminder that accountability extends beyond the field and includes organisational and leadership roles.
Despite the sanctions, Thiaw’s leadership has been widely praised for guiding Senegal to the 2025 AFCON title. The victory was a testament to his tactical acumen and ability to inspire his players, even under intense pressure and scrutiny. Observers have noted that while his actions during the final drew disciplinary attention, they did not overshadow the team’s overall achievement.
The coach’s call for fans to redirect their generosity has been interpreted as a message of social responsibility. By encouraging supporters to focus on community needs rather than personal support for him, Thiaw sought to align the public’s goodwill with broader humanitarian goals, demonstrating leadership beyond the football pitch.
Senegalese supporters have shown a deep commitment to their team and its leaders, reflecting the emotional investment of fans in the nation’s footballing success. Social media campaigns and grassroots fundraising efforts emerged almost immediately after the CAF sanctions were announced, highlighting the strong connection between the coach, his players, and the public.
CAF officials stated that the measures were implemented in accordance with established disciplinary protocols and international football standards. The governing body emphasised the importance of maintaining the integrity of the sport, ensuring fair play, and addressing any behaviour that could undermine confidence in the competition or its participants.
Thiaw’s measured response, thanking fans while requesting the cessation of fundraisers, has been met with widespread approval.