Senegal Federation explains Mexico ordeal for four Lionesses

The Senegal Basketball Federation has explained why four members of the women’s national team remained in Mexico after the squad’s early departure from the Olympic qualifying tournament. Dioma Kane, Nogaye Diagne, Sabou Guèye and Madjiguène Sène were left to follow the delegation’s original travel plan, while other players returned earlier.

Senegal’s campaign for the 2028 Olympic women’s basketball tournament ended with three defeats in three games. After that elimination, the federation tried to bring the team home ahead of schedule, but the available Air France option required transit through the Schengen area. Because some players did not hold the necessary visas, only those eligible for that route could leave early.

The four affected players therefore kept the initial itinerary, scheduled for 24 August 2026, the day after the tournament ended on 23 August. Their journey from Mexico to Dakar was planned through Casablanca and São Paulo, and the federation said that date could not be changed.

The federation also said it arranged five-star hotel accommodation or VIP lounge access during the extended journey. Financial assistance was provided so the players could buy personal items while waiting for their luggage. The explanation followed criticism from Sène, who described the conditions experienced by the group during a Facebook Live broadcast.