Dakar is buzzing with a major transformation in amateur football. From April 13 to 15, 2026, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) and FIFA are bringing together key stakeholders in Dakar for a decisive workshop. The event, officially opening this Tuesday, April 14 at the King Fahd Palace Congress Center, aims to assess the grassroots football environment, identify challenges, and propose concrete solutions for an ambitious reform.
A foundation to strengthen for the future of the game
Considered the backbone of national football development, Senegal’s amateur sector suffers from structural shortcomings: lack of infrastructure, limited technical supervision, and under-equipped regional leagues. This feedback workshop presents the conclusions of an in-depth study conducted by the FSF in partnership with FIFA. “The objective is to propose concrete avenues for improvement to better structure and energize this essential sector,” the FSF stated. Over three days, club officials, coaches, technical staff, and regional leagues will take part in collaborative discussions, laying the groundwork for a new dynamic.
The opening ceremony, scheduled for 10 a.m. under the leadership of the Minister of Youth and Sports, Khady Diene Gaye, and in the presence of FSF President Abdoulaye Fall, marks a turning point. This initiative is part of a broader FSF strategy, which has overseen all Senegalese football since 1960, from amateur leagues (National 1 and 2) to youth and women’s teams. Amateur football, through the Amateur Football League (LFA), feeds professional competitions but requires reform to better develop grassroots talent.
This FIFA-FSF partnership strengthens an already growing momentum. FIFA supports Senegal in improving infrastructure, strengthening grassroots programs, and developing players, with the goal of increasing international competitiveness. At the same time, the FSF is preparing for the 2026 World Cup through friendly matches and fan mobilization, while also structuring youth football via regional seminars. “Senegal is moving forward, and this partnership with FIFA reinforces our ambition to make football a driver of sustainable development,” a federation official said.
At the end of the workshop, specific recommendations are expected to emerge: improved coach education, investment in equipment, and reform of amateur competitions. This meeting could spark a new wave of talent feeding into the “Lions of Teranga,” Africa’s champions, and propel Senegal to new global heights. A crucial challenge for a country where football transcends generations.