Senegalese referee Maguette Ndiaye has announced his retirement after more than two decades in football.
At 39, he ends a remarkable career marked by dedication, consistency, and excellence on the global stage.
Ndiaye confirmed his decision at the beginning of the 2025–2026 season, expressing gratitude to colleagues, officials, and supporters who accompanied him throughout his professional journey.
He stated that his next chapter will focus on training and mentoring the next generation of African referees, saying he wants to “give back to refereeing everything it has given me.”
He began his refereeing career at just 14, working his way from local leagues to the highest level of international competitions.
His career highlights include officiating at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the 2019 and 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, the 2018 African Nations Championship, and the 2019 U20 World Cup in Poland.
Ndiaye also made history as the first African referee to officiate in the Moroccan professional league and earned a place among the world’s top 35 referees, recognition for his professionalism and strong ethics.
Despite not being selected among the candidates for the 2023 and 2025 AFCON tournaments, he retires “with his head held high,” proud of his contribution to African football.
Known for his composure and fairness, Ndiaye leaves the pitch as a respected figure both in Senegal and across the continent.
In his farewell message, he shared a final reflection: “No one can stop the sea with their arms. Long live African refereeing, and long live Senegalese refereeing.”
His departure marks the end of an era for African officiating but also the beginning of a new legacy through those he will mentor.
