Former Senegal national team coach, Pape Thiaw, made a public appearance after weeks of remaining out of the spotlight. He was spotted at the official launch of the “Dundal JOJ” program at the Iba Mar Diop stadium in Dakar on September 5th. Thiaw was seen greeting President Bassirou Diomaye Faye at the event, which aimed to mobilize national support for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. This appearance marks a symbolic return to public life for the coach, following his dismissal after a disappointing performance at the 2026 World Cup. Despite qualifying Senegal for the World Cup, his team faced elimination in the round of sixteen. The Senegal Football Federation ended his contract on July 11th, 2026, after a painful defeat against Belgium. His presence at the event has renewed public interest in the former coach, though no statements have been made by either him or officials.