Last Tuesday, during a ceremony to present the trophy won by the U15 Lionceaux at the African Schools Football Championship and to hand over the flag to the national U17 team heading to the 2026 U17 AFCON, both squads were given symbolic checks.

Reports indicated that the young U15 champions, who recently claimed victory in Zimbabwe, each received a sum of 100,000 FCFA. This particular allocation sparked considerable debate and questions regarding the true purpose of the remuneration.

Responding to the controversy, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) issued a statement on Thursday to provide clarity. The federation clarified that, in line with Confederation of African Football (CAF) regulations, no cash prize money is directly disbursed to players participating in this school-level competition.

The FSF further emphasized that the total prize of 300,000 US dollars awarded to the winning team is not intended for individual distribution or direct payment to the Federation itself. This fund is administered by CAF and allocated towards specific projects formulated in partnership with Senegal’s Ministry of National Education and the FSF. These initiatives include procuring sports equipment, enhancing infrastructure, and implementing educational programs designed to sustainably bolster school football across Senegal.

Ultimately, the Federation confirmed that the amount provided to the players was solely for covering their transportation expenses, ensuring their comfortable and safe return to their respective families.