Senegal’s World Cup jersey won’t have two stars

Senegal will sport a single star on their World Cup jerseys this summer, despite claiming two Africa Cup of Nations titles.

The change is due to production timelines, not a sanction.

The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) explained that Puma began manufacturing the jerseys in August last year. “Manufacturing deadlines and industrial constraints did not allow for the interruption of this ongoing process,” the FSF said.

Senegal won the Africa Cup of Nations in January, marking their second continental triumph after their 2021 victory, which accounts for the first star.

However, the Teranga Lions were controversially stripped of the second title after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) ruled that Senegal forfeited the January 18 final by leaving the field without the referee’s permission, awarding Morocco a 3-0 win by default.

The FSF statement did not reference the CAF decision, instead reaffirming “our victory” and noting that the second star will appear on future jerseys.

“Aware of the Senegalese people’s legitimate attachment to their symbols, the FSF wishes to reassure all supporters: the new jerseys incorporating the second star are currently in production. They are scheduled to be available starting next September,” the federation said.

“The FSF apologizes for any misunderstanding this situation may have caused and thanks the supporters for their constant commitment, vigilance, and unwavering attachment to the national team.”

The FSF also confirmed it will appeal CAF’s decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland—a process that can take up to a year. Senegal’s government condemned the ruling as “grossly illegal and deeply unjust,” calling for an international investigation into alleged corruption within African football.

CAF president Patrice Motsepe defended the organization on Wednesday, rejecting claims of favoritism toward Morocco, which will co-host the 2030 World Cup and has heavily invested in its soccer program.