Senegal U15 champions receive 100,000 FCFA: FSF responds to payment queries
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has addressed recent concerns regarding financial rewards distributed to the U15 national team following their victory at the African School Football Championship in Zimbabwe. The clarification comes after public curiosity about the nature of the 100,000 FCFA payments made to each player.
During a ceremonial event marking the triumph of the Lionceaux U15 squad and the handover of the flag to the U17 national team (scheduled for the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations), symbolic checks were presented to both squads. The U15 champions, who secured their title in Zimbabwe, received envelopes totaling 100,000 FCFA each, a move that sparked widespread discussion.
FSF responds to payment controversy with official statement
The FSF issued a formal response to clarify the situation, emphasizing that the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) regulations strictly prohibit direct cash bonuses for players in school-level competitions. The Federation explained that the 300,000 USD prize allocated to the winning team is not distributed as individual payments but is instead managed by the CAF in collaboration with Senegal’s Ministry of National Education and the FSF.
The funds are earmarked for sustainable football development initiatives, including:
- Procurement of sports equipment
- Development of sports infrastructure
- Implementation of educational programs to strengthen school football in Senegal
In its statement, the FSF confirmed that the 100,000 FCFA received by the players was solely intended to cover transportation expenses, ensuring their safe and comfortable return to their families after the tournament.
