DAKAR, Senegal (AP) – Senegal’s national football team will showcase only one star on their jerseys at the upcoming World Cup, a decision unrelated to the recent loss of their Africa Cup of Nations title.
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) clarified that the jersey production by Puma commenced in August of last year, and that manufacturing constraints prevented any changes to the ongoing process.
Recent Developments in the Africa Cup Title
Senegal won the Africa Cup in January, marking their second continental championship following their 2021 victory, which is represented by the first star on their jerseys.
However, on Tuesday, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) stripped Senegal of the second title, determining that the team forfeited the January 18 final against Morocco by leaving the field without the referee’s permission, resulting in a default 3-0 victory for Morocco.
FSF’s Response and Future Plans
The FSF did not address the recent decision in its statement, emphasizing their continued reference to ‘our victory’ and the intention to include the second star on future jerseys after the World Cup.
In an effort to reassure supporters, the FSF stated, ‘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.’
Appeal Against CAF’s Decision
The FSF previously announced its intention to appeal CAF’s ruling to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland, a process that typically spans a year for a verdict. The Senegalese government criticized the CAF decision as ‘grossly illegal and deeply unjust’ and has called for an international investigation into alleged corruption within African football governance.
In defense of CAF, President Patrice Motsepe addressed concerns regarding favoritism towards Morocco, a co-host of the 2030 World Cup, which has made significant investments in soccer development.