Senegal's AFCON Champions Receive Presidential Rewards of Land, Cash, and National Honors
In a grand celebration of national triumph, Senegal President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has bestowed substantial rewards upon the Teranga Lions following their dramatic victory in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The national football team, led by star player Sadio Mane, secured the continental championship after a tense final against Morocco that will be remembered for years to come.
Substantial Financial and Land Rewards for Players
Each member of Senegal's 28-player squad will receive approximately €114,900 as a bonus from the government, totaling an impressive €3.1 million distributed among the players. Beyond the financial rewards, President Faye has allocated 1,500 square-meter plots of coastal land to every player, providing them with valuable real estate along Senegal's picturesque shoreline.
The rewards extend beyond just the players, with Senegal's soccer federation officials and delegation members also receiving cash and land bonuses. Sports ministry staff collectively received 305 million CFA francs in recognition of their support during the tournament campaign.
Highest National Honors for Football Heroes
In addition to the material rewards, President Faye awarded head coach Pape Thiaw and the entire Teranga Lions squad the rank of Commanders of the National Order of the Lion. This distinction represents Senegal's highest national honor, reserved for individuals who make historic contributions to the West African nation.
Speaking at the official AFCON reception ceremony in Dakar, President Faye praised the players' heroism and the beautiful football they showcased throughout the tournament. The president emphasized how the team's victory has inspired millions across Senegal and the African continent.
Dramatic Final and National Celebrations
The AFCON 2025 final itself was filled with extraordinary drama, as Senegal staged a walk-off protest after a controversial penalty was awarded to hosts Morocco during stoppage time. The Teranga Lions returned to the pitch after star player Sadio Mane persuaded his teammates to continue the game.
Morocco would eventually miss the crucial spot-kick after Brahim Diaz's Panenka penalty was saved by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Pape Gueye later sealed Senegal's victory with a spectacular extra-time goal, crowning the Teranga Lions African champions for the second time in their history.
Upon their return to Senegal, thousands of ecstatic fans welcomed the champions in Dakar. The players rode atop an open-top bus emblazoned with African Champions along the Corniche to the presidential palace, with supporters singing and dancing in celebration throughout the capital city.
Historical Context and National Significance
This victory adds to Senegal's growing legacy in African football, following their first AFCON title in 2021 when players received 50 million CFA francs and smaller land plots. The 2025 triumph represents a significant achievement for a nation that continues to establish itself as a football powerhouse on the continent.
Despite Senegal grappling with national debt issues reported by the IMF at 132% of GDP at the end of 2024, the government prioritized rewarding its AFCON heroes. This decision underscores the cultural and symbolic importance of football in Senegalese society and the government's commitment to celebrating national achievements.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) had previously confirmed that the winners of AFCON 2025 would receive €8.5 million in prize money, adding another layer of financial reward for the victorious Senegal team. With bonuses, land, and national honors, Senegal's players have not only brought glory to their country but have become living symbols of inspiration and resilience for millions of supporters across West Africa.
