Senegal in turmoil ahead of 2026 World Cup
Investigative journalist Romain Molina has sparked controversy this Thursday by announcing explosive revelations about the inner workings of Senegal’s participation in the 2026 World Cup in the United States. In a post on X, he promises to unveil unprecedented facts implicating officials from the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF). Among the allegations: financial mismanagement, misuse of assets, lies, endangering players, and even theft of player equipment and food. "To my knowledge, I’ve never seen anything like this for such an event", he wrote, announcing the release of a video later in the day.
Senegal’s last match was on July 1, 2026, a 3-2 loss to Belgium, in a stretch where the Teranga Lions have lost four straight games (1 win, 4 losses in their last five matches).
What exactly is Romain Molina accusing the FSF of?
According to the journalist, his investigation reveals a systemic breakdown within the federation. The financial mismanagement claims could involve embezzlement of funds allocated for the 2026 World Cup logistics. The misuse of assets, meanwhile, may point to fraudulent use of resources meant for players, such as equipment or meals. "Theft of player equipment and food", he states, emphasizing that these failings endanger the team’s preparation.
This case echoes Molina’s past revelations on Senegalese football, which had already forced the FSF to file lawsuits. In 2025, his investigations into irregularities led to internal sanctions and external audits. The FSF has not yet officially responded to the new allegations, but the opacity around these practices raises questions.
Why these revelations could change everything for Senegal
If Molina’s allegations are confirmed, they could undermine the credibility of Senegal’s preparation for the 2026 World Cup. A team already struggling after a string of defeats (last win: 1-0 vs Guinea in March 2026) cannot afford a scandal of this magnitude. Fans and sponsors may demand answers, or even sanctions against those responsible.
The Teranga Lions, led by Aliou Cissé, must rebuild after a disappointing African campaign. Molina’s revelations add extra pressure on a federation already under fire. The video promised for Thursday afternoon could trigger an institutional crisis-or, conversely, force much-needed transparency.
What’s next? Will the FSF take action?
Romain Molina has promised to release his video later in the day. If the evidence is damning, the FSF may be forced to launch an internal probe, or even suspend those implicated. The players, meanwhile, are already feeling the fallout of a chaotic preparation: Édouard Mendy, the starting goalkeeper, is sidelined, depriving the team of a key defensive pillar.
Senegal faces this period under intense scrutiny. Between inconsistent results and cascading scandals, the road to the 2026 World Cup looks fraught with challenges. The FSF’s response in the coming hours will be pivotal for the future of Senegalese football.
