- The Senegal jersey officially displays only one star, that of the 2021 AFCON.
- On jerseys, stars primarily reward world titles, but also continental victories.
- The 2026 World Cup jersey, designed by Puma, features one star above the emblem.
- The absence of a second star is due to the dispute surrounding the 2025 AFCON.
- A two-star version is being considered by the Federation depending on the outcome of this case.
Many supporters wonder why the Senegal jersey displays only one star, and not two. The answer combines football rules, the history of the Lions, and an ongoing current case. You will see what this star represents and why the second one is a matter of debate. Let's start with the basics.
What a star on a jersey represents
On national team jerseys, stars indicate major titles. Originally, they primarily rewarded World Cups: France has two, Brazil five. But several African nations, like Senegal, Egypt, and Côte d'Ivoire, also display stars for their Africa Cup of Nations victories.
The nickname "Lions of Teranga" refers to the Senegal team. Essentially, the star on their jersey celebrates a continental title, not a world title.
Senegal's star, that of 2021
The star present on the Senegalese jersey refers to the 2021 AFCON victory, the country's first continental title in history. A foundational moment, etched on the players' chests. To learn more about this team and its aura, our article on the popularity of the Senegal jersey in France provides more details.
So, why not two stars?
This is where the debate begins. On the field, Senegal won the 2025 AFCON final. But at the end of the competition, the Confederation of African Football, by decision of its appeal jury, awarded the title to Morocco. The Senegalese Federation is contesting this decision before the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
From a regulatory standpoint, Senegal currently has only one official continental title. This explains the single star on the jersey. The Federation also stated that the production of the kits began before the end of the competition, which made any modification difficult in time. We revisit this type of situation in our article why a Senegal AFCON victory was overturned.
The Senegal 2026 World Cup jersey
For the 2026 World Cup, Puma has unveiled a kit that draws from the country's culture. The white home kit features a pattern inspired by the Dakar fast cars, the away kit returns to the Lions' green, and the 2021 star sits above the emblem.
One star above the emblem, referring to the 2021 AFCON. Worn in competition.
A second star, mentioned by the Federation depending on the outcome of the 2025 AFCON case.
The Federation indicated that a version incorporating a second star could be released depending on the follow-up to the case. In the meantime, the official jersey remains with one star. To know everything about the current kit, see our article on the Senegal 2026 jersey.
Sawa Football designs limited edition jerseys in France in the colors of Senegal, exclusive and nowhere else to be found. Supporter items to show your pride.
See Senegal jerseys →Frequently asked questions
How many stars does the Senegal jersey have?
Officially only one, that of the 2021 AFCON, the country's first continental title. The 2026 World Cup jersey bears this single star above the emblem of the Lions of Teranga.
Why not a second star for the 2025 AFCON?
Because the 2025 title was ultimately awarded to Morocco by the appeal jury of the Confederation of African Football. The Senegalese Federation is contesting this decision before the Court of Arbitration for Sport, but the title is not officially recognized for Senegal yet.
What does the star on the Senegalese jersey represent?
It celebrates Senegal's victory in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, the very first continental title in its history. Several African national teams thus display stars for their AFCON victories.
Will a two-star version exist?
The Senegalese Federation has mentioned a two-star version depending on the outcome of the 2025 AFCON case. For now, the official jersey remains with only one star, awaiting the final decision.
One star or two? For now, Senegal's official jersey displays one, that of 2021, and the future will depend on an ongoing case. Beyond the debate, the star remains a symbol of pride for the Lions of Teranga. And as always, check the origin of your jersey before buying.
