Mali football: tom saintfiet steps down amid turmoil

Tom Saintfiet, the Belgian head coach of the Mali national football team, has announced his immediate departure from the role. He had been in charge since August 2024, but the escalating political and security crisis in the country has prompted his decision to step down.

In a heartfelt message posted on his Facebook account on April 27, 2026, Saintfiet shared: “Today marks the end of my mission as head coach of Mali’s senior national team. I leave with pride and dedication, despite the challenging circumstances. It is now time for me to pursue a new challenge.”

Mali national team records under saintfiet

Under Saintfiet’s leadership, the Mali national team, also known as the Eagles of Mali, showed resilience in the World Cup qualifiers. They suffered just two defeats in 17 matches, including a quarter-final loss to Senegal in the most recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Saintfiet’s departure comes at a critical moment for Malian football. He succeeded Éric Chelle and had been linked to the Ghana national team before Carlos Queiroz was appointed as the Black Stars’ coach.

In his farewell statement, Saintfiet expressed his solidarity with the Malian people: “In these particularly difficult times that Mali is facing, my thoughts are with the Malian people and the entire nation. More than ever, I send a message of compassion, solidarity, and unity. Football is, above all, a sport that brings people together, and I hope it continues to carry messages of peace and hope for Mali.”

“May peace, stability, and hope return durably to Mali. I wish Mali the best of luck! Go Eagles!”

reaction from the malian football federation

The Malian Football Federation (FMF), led by President Mahazou Baba Cissé, has publicly acknowledged Saintfiet’s contributions. The federation has also initiated a search for a new head coach to take over the reins of the national team.