Senegal have dismissed head coach Pape Thiaw and his entire backroom staff following the team's elimination at the last-32 stage of the 2026 World Cup. The Senegal Football Federation said the decision followed a thorough evaluation of results and prospects under the 45-year-old's leadership.
Senegal lost their opening two group matches to France and Norway before thrashing Iraq 5-0 to advance as one of the best third-placed teams. In the knockout round, they led Belgium 2-0 but surrendered a 3-2 defeat after extra time. Earlier in the tournament, midfielder Pape Gueye had threatened to step away from international duty while the current management remained.
Thiaw's tenure was already mired in controversy. CAF stripped Senegal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title in March 2026 after Thiaw led a walk-off during the final against Morocco, awarding the trophy to Morocco instead. Senegal have lodged an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport and await a ruling.