The Ministry of Youth and Sports Mali has officially called for the dismissal of national team head coach Tom Saintfiet, citing failure to deliver on key contractual objectives.
In a formal letter dated 13 January 2026 and addressed to the Malian Football Federation, the ministry pointed to what it described as “insufficient results” despite earlier optimism surrounding the Belgian tactician’s appointment.
Saintfiet’s contract reportedly outlined four principal goals. While he succeeded in steering Mali to qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the campaign ended in disappointment with a quarter-final exit — short of the expected final appearance clause in his mandate.
The ministry further noted that progress toward 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification and advancement beyond the early stages of the global tournament had not met agreed benchmarks, strengthening its case for termination.
With Saintfiet only two years into a deal signed in August 2024, the recommendation now places pressure on the federation to decide whether to end his tenure or offer him more time with the Eagles.
