The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has announced that the start of the professional football season will be delayed to October 17, 2026. The initial date of October 3, 2026, has been pushed back due to international commitments of the national teams. The FSF's decision was made to ensure that the national teams can prepare and participate in upcoming international competitions without any conflicts.
The FSF's Emergency Committee met on September 29, 2026, to review the calendar of national competitions in light of Senegal's international commitments. The Committee noted that the initial date for the start of the professional championship coincided with several important international matches for the national teams. The senior national team will play against the Comoros on October 4, 2026, while the U23, U20, U17, and Beach Soccer teams will also be in action during the same period.
The FSF's decision aims to allow the national teams to prepare and participate in international competitions optimally. The new start date of October 17, 2026, will enable the teams to make necessary preparations and avoid any potential conflicts with international matches. The FSF has urged the Ligue Sénégalaise de Football Professionnel (LSFP), professional clubs, and other stakeholders to adjust their plans accordingly.
The postponement of the season start will give clubs three additional weeks to prepare for the new season. The LSFP had initially maintained that the season would start on October 3, 2026, but the FSF's decision has overridden this plan. The FSF's move is aimed at ensuring that Senegal's national teams are well-prepared for their upcoming international commitments.
The FSF's decision also highlights the importance of coordinating national and international football calendars. The Federation aims to balance the interests of national teams with those of professional clubs. By delaying the season start, the FSF hopes to prevent any potential conflicts that could impact the performance of Senegal's national teams in international competitions.
The postponement of the season start may have implications for the teams' preparation and performance. Clubs will need to adjust their training schedules and plans to accommodate the new start date. The additional weeks may provide an opportunity for teams to fine-tune their strategies and prepare their players for the new season.
The FSF's decision has been communicated to the LSFP, professional clubs, and other stakeholders. The Federation has urged all parties to take necessary steps to integrate the new start date into their plans. The delay in the season start is expected to have a positive impact on Senegal's national teams and their performance in international competitions.
Key points
- The Senegalese Football Federation has postponed the start of the professional football season to October 17, 2026, due to international commitments of the national teams.
