President of the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), Augustin Senghor, has officially declared his candidacy for a seat on the FIFA Council. This marks a significant step for the experienced football administrator, who previously ran for the presidency of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in 2021 before stepping aside under the controversial Rabat pact, paving the way for Dr. Patrice Motsepe. Senghor was subsequently appointed CAF’s first vice-president, a role he has held with distinction.
Senghor’s track record speaks volumes, having overseen an era of unparalleled success in Senegalese football.
Under his leadership, Senegal claimed major continental titles, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the African Nations Championship (CHAN), and youth-level tournaments such as the U17 and U20 AFCONs.
These accomplishments have bolstered his reputation as a capable and forward-thinking administrator, making his candidacy for the FIFA Council a natural progression.
The election for the FIFA Council is scheduled to take place on March 12, 2025, in Cairo.
Senghor will face fierce competition, with 16 candidates vying for five available seats, including a reserved position for a female member, in addition to the seat for the CAF president.
Among his challengers are notable figures from West Africa, including Idriss Diallo of Côte d’Ivoire, Mathurin de Chacus of Benin, Ibrahim Musa Gusau of Nigeria, and Hima Hamidou Djibrilla of Niger.
Senghor will also contend with North African heavyweights like Fawzi Lekjaa of Morocco and Ahmed Yahia of Mauritania, as well as seasoned candidates like Egypt’s Hani Abu Rida.
Djibouti’s Souleiman Hassan Waberi has also declared his intention to run, further intensifying the competition.
The abolition of zonal and linguistic divisions following the 46th CAF General Assembly means Senghor must rely on broad support across the continent.
The FIFA Council will evaluate the eligibility of all candidates before the March 2025 election, with intense negotiations expected in the lead-up to the vote.
Senghor’s candidacy highlights his ambition to represent Africa’s interests on the global stage and reflects his commitment to advancing football across the continent.
With a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success, he is poised to be a formidable contender in the race for a seat at FIFA’s decision-making table.
