Senegal’s government has confirmed plans to reward head coach Pape Thiaw with an improved contract following the country’s historic triumph at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Minister of Sports Khady Diene Gaye revealed that Thiaw is set for a salary increase after leading the Teranga Lions to continental glory with a dramatic 1–0 extra-time victory over hosts Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal after Brahim Díaz missed a penalty during regulation time.
Speaking to Wiwsport.com about Thiaw’s future, Gaye left little doubt about the government’s intentions.
“Is there a possibility of a salary increase for the coach? Yes, I confirm it here. He achieved his objectives by qualifying the team for the World Cup and winning the Africa Cup of Nations.
“You don’t change a winning team, do you? So, we will try to continue with him. And for this continuity, and it is the case to whoever that does great things, achieves great things for the country.”
She explained that Thiaw’s current deal included a performance clause tied not only to reaching the AFCON final but to lifting the trophy — a target he has now fulfilled.
“We’re going to review the initial contract. There was a clause in his contract that stipulated not just reaching the AFCON final, but winning the cup.
“Since we aspire to win the first world trophy, to be the first African country to win the World Cup, we need to put our coach in optimal conditions for performance, so he can have peace of mind, without financial worries or day-to-day concerns.”
However, Thiaw’s celebrations have been tempered by disciplinary action from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The Senegal coach has been handed a five-match suspension and fined USD 100,000 following incidents that overshadowed the AFCON final.
