Senegal World Cup camp hit by bonus disputes and food complaints

Senegal arrived at their fourth World Cup with ambitions of surpassing their 2002 quarter-final run, but instead find themselves without a point after two games and on the brink of elimination. They must defeat Iraq on Friday to keep their knockout stage hopes alive. However, their on-field struggles have been compounded by a series of off-pitch issues, including disputes over bonuses, a late change of chef, and complaints about food.

Bonus payments and food complaints

Players and staff are staying at the four-star Hyatt Regency in New Brunswick, New Jersey, a step down from the five-star Fairmont Palace in Tangier used during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. While the hotel is conveniently located near their training base at Rutgers University, there have been complaints about the quality of the food. The team traveled with their own chef, who had prepared menus months in advance, but he left after the second pre-World Cup friendly for personal reasons. A replacement chef was brought in, and players have no issue with the catering. However, other members of the delegation—not players or coaching staff—have expressed disappointment that Senegalese food was not being served and have occasionally ordered food from outside.

Some Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) officials have had family members travel at their own expense and stay near the official hotel, which has not been well received by everyone. The families of the players are staying in a nearby hotel, with accommodation and breakfast paid for by the federation.

Unpaid bonuses were also a source of discontent. These were finally paid by the government a few days ago. Coach Pape Thiaw acknowledged the issues, saying, "It's true that there's some malfunctions but, from the players' side, the staff and the FA, we are focused on the game tomorrow and that's the most important thing."

Contract talks and leadership

Thiaw, who played for Senegal at the 2002 World Cup, took charge in 2024 and initially accepted a salary of about £210,000 per year. After leading the team to the controversial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, he entered contract extension talks from a stronger position, but negotiations dragged on. Thiaw had said on the eve of the tournament, "If I lose even a second of my belief that I can win the World Cup with Senegal, I will step down."

Senegal, ranked 17th in the world, arrived as one of Africa's leading hopes despite being stripped of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title (which could be regained on appeal). However, they are now playing catch-up after losing 3-1 to France and 3-2 to Norway. Former Senegal forward El Hadji Diouf told RTS Senegal, "The players don't need all this commotion."