Senegal-Peru pre-match show reshaped after Booba withdrawal

Booba has withdrawn from a planned appearance at the Stade de France ahead of Senegal’s friendly against Peru after suffering an injury, organisers have confirmed.

The high-profile performance had been scheduled as part of celebrations organised by the Senegalese Football Federation to honour Senegal’s recent continental success.

However, the event programme has been adjusted following the artist’s last-minute absence.

According to reports, the 49-year-old French rapper of Senegalese origin sustained a serious injury in a recent sporting accident, forcing him to cancel his participation.

His withdrawal represents a notable change to the entertainment line-up planned for supporters attending the match.

The federation issued a statement to clarify the situation to fans expected at the Saint-Denis venue on Saturday, 28 March.

“The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) informs the public that Booba will unfortunately not be able to attend the Senegal-Peru match. […] The FSF wishes him a speedy recovery and thanks the public for their understanding,” the official statement reads.

The pre-match celebration had been designed to extend festivities following Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph, with music and entertainment forming part of the build-up to kick-off.

Booba’s presence was expected to be one of the highlights of the occasion.

Following his withdrawal, Youssou N’Dour will now take on full responsibility for the musical programme.

The internationally renowned Senegalese artist had already been invited by the federation and will perform alone as part of the pre-match festivities.

The match itself is scheduled to begin at 16:00 GMT, with supporters set to gather at the Stade de France for both the football and the accompanying celebrations.

Despite the late change, organisers are maintaining the planned schedule, with Youssou N’Dour’s performance expected to lead the entertainment before the teams take to the pitch.

The fixture remains a key moment for fans to celebrate the national team’s achievements while also following their preparations for upcoming international competitions.