CAF inspectors have completed a comprehensive technical evaluation of Dakar’s Stade Léopold Sédar Senghor and have outlined a series of upgrades required before the venue can be approved for international football matches.
The Confederation of African Football conducted its inspection on 13, 14, and 16 July, examining all aspects of the stadium’s facilities following recent renovations.
The inspection revealed that while the stadium has made significant improvements, several areas still fall short of CAF and FIFA standards.
Among the key requirements is the acquisition of a dedicated lawnmower vehicle to ensure the pitch is maintained at a professional level. Inspectors also pointed to the tunnel leading to the changing rooms, which they deemed too narrow and low.
The tunnel must be widened, and its height increased from 2.5 metres to 4 metres to meet safety and access standards. Additionally, paving beneath the stands was flagged as necessary to enhance both accessibility and spectator safety.
Another major point of concern was the pitchside seating area. CAF has requested that benches be installed that meet international specifications, providing appropriate comfort and protection for substitutes, coaches, and match officials.
These upgrades are seen as essential for the stadium to regain its approval to host official international fixtures, including matches involving Senegal’s national team and continental tournaments.
Though the stadium was recently reopened following a lengthy period of refurbishment, it will not be fully cleared to host high-level matches until the listed modifications are made.
The stadium’s management and national football authorities are now expected to coordinate efforts to ensure all recommendations are implemented within CAF’s stipulated timeline.
Discussions between Senegal’s football governing body and local stadium authorities have reportedly led to an agreement allowing provisional use of the venue, contingent upon immediate compliance with the corrective measures.
Stade Léopold Sédar Senghor, long regarded as one of West Africa’s iconic football venues, had fallen into disrepair prior to its renovation.
The refurbishment project aimed to modernise the stadium and align it with international standards, making it suitable for hosting global sporting events.
However, CAF’s latest inspection makes it clear that completion of cosmetic upgrades alone is not sufficient.
With national pride and future international hosting opportunities at stake, the spotlight is now on local organisers to act swiftly.
Once the required updates are completed and approved, the stadium could once again become a regular fixture in the African football calendar, serving as a fitting home for the Teranga Lions and a stage for major continental showpieces.
Until then, its full reinstatement as an international venue remains dependent on meeting the conditions laid out by CAF inspectors.
