Senegal football federation clarifies payments for u15 champions

During a ceremony held last Tuesday to present the trophy won by the U15 Lionceaux at the African School Football Championship and to hand over the national flag to the U17 team preparing for the 2026 U17 AFCON, both squads were presented with symbolic checks.

The U15 squad, who recently secured the continental title in Zimbabwe, reportedly received a sum of 100,000 FCFA per player. This specific amount has since sparked significant public debate and curiosity regarding the nature of the compensation for these young champions.

Clarifications from the Senegalese Football Federation

In response to the growing controversy, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) issued an official statement this Thursday to provide necessary context. The governing body explained that, under the current regulations set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), direct cash performance bonuses are not permitted for players participating in this specific school-level competition.

The FSF further detailed that the total prize of $300,000 awarded to the tournament winner is not intended for individual distribution or direct payment to the Federation’s general funds. Instead, these resources are managed by CAF and allocated to specific development projects. These initiatives are designed in coordination with the Ministry of National Education and the FSF, focusing on:

• Procuring high-quality sports equipment
• Developing local football infrastructure
• Implementing educational programs to strengthen school football across Sénégal

To conclude, the Federation emphasized that the 100,000 FCFA given to the players was strictly intended to cover their travel expenses. This financial support was provided to ensure that every young athlete could return to their home and family in a safe and comfortable manner.