In a selfless move, Senegal coach Pape Thiaw has appealed to his home nation to cease efforts for donations to pay off his $100,000 fine.

Thiaw was sanctioned by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for bringing the game into disrepute.

He was accused of telling his players to leave the pitch during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against hosts Morocco on 18 January.

“Mr. Pape Bouna Thiaw, the head coach of the Senegalese National Team, is suspended for five (5) official CAF matches for his unsporting conduct in violation of the CAF Disciplinary Code principles of fair play and integrity and for bringing the game into disrepute. He was also fined USD 100,000 (R1.5 million),” said CAF.

After CAF released the statement, a group of people in Senegal joined forces to start a fundraising campaign for Thiaw to pay off the fine, but the coach has called for an end to it.

“People of Senegal, my family, your solidarity since the announcement of the sanctions goes straight to my heart. Thank you for this love you show me every day. However, I humbly ask you not to organize fundraising campaigns in my name,” said Thiaw, in a statement written in the country’s official language, French.

“While I understand and appreciate this gesture of generosity, I invite you to redirect these funds toward more urgent causes, for the benefit of those who truly need them.”

Senegal, the reigning African champions, were fined by CAF a total of $715 000 (R11.4 million), while Morocco has to cough up $415 000 (R6.6 million) for the incidents in the final.