FIFA has suspended Senegalese football official Abdoulaye Saydou Sow for two matches and fined him $5,000 following incidents during the 2026 World Cup qualifier against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The world governing body’s disciplinary committee issued the punishment after Sow violated Article 13 of FIFA’s Disciplinary Code, citing inappropriate conduct and a breach of fair play during the heated qualifier.
The decision also included a financial penalty equivalent to roughly 2.8 million CFA francs.
The match, which brought together the Senegal Lions and the DR Congo Leopards, unfolded in a tense atmosphere from start to finish. Tempers flared both on and off the pitch, and scenes inside the stadium sparked widespread criticism.
Damage to facilities heightened the controversy surrounding the fixture, prompting FIFA to open disciplinary proceedings against involved parties.
FIFA officials concluded Sow’s actions during the encounter fell short of expected standards, warranting direct punishment.
The two-match suspension means the senior Senegalese football figure will miss upcoming crucial fixtures as his side continues its quest for a place at the 2026 World Cup.
While Senegal received immediate disciplinary action, FIFA has yet to deliver a final verdict on the DR Congo side.
The organisation continues to review events involving the Leopards, and further sanctions could follow depending on the outcome of the investigation.
The ruling reinforces FIFA’s stance on maintaining strict discipline and upholding fair play in international competitions.
Officials stressed the need for national team representatives to demonstrate professionalism, especially during high-stakes matches that attract intense scrutiny from fans and media alike.
Senegal’s football authorities have not yet commented publicly on Sow’s suspension, but the punishment marks a significant moment ahead of decisive qualifiers that could determine their path to the global stage.
