Tom Saintfiet has officially stepped down from his role as head coach of the Mali national football team. The Belgian trainer announced his departure through a letter shared on Instagram on May 27, marking the end of a two-year tenure that began in August 2024.
The Malian Football Federation (FEMAFOOT), led by president Mahazou Cisset, expressed their deep appreciation for Saintfiet’s contributions in an official statement released the following day. The federation highlighted his commitment, professionalism, and the lasting impact he made during his time with the team.
a legacy of resilience and unity
In his farewell message, Saintfiet reflected on his journey with the Mali national team, describing his experience as both challenging and rewarding. He emphasized that his mission was carried out with pride and dedication, despite the obstacles encountered along the way. The coach extended his heartfelt thanks to the Malian people for their unwavering support, as well as to his players, technical staff, and all those who contributed to the team’s progress.
Saintfiet also paid a special tribute to FEMAFOOT’s president, describing him as a true gentleman who demonstrated exceptional leadership through dialogue and compromise. His praise underscored the strong relationships he built during his tenure, both on and off the field.
key achievements during his mandate
Over the course of his 17 official matches in charge, including qualifiers for the African Nations Cup (CAN) and the FIFA World Cup, Saintfiet guided Mali to nine victories, six draws, and two losses. The team’s performance culminated in a quarter-final appearance at the 2025 CAN, where they were ultimately defeated by eventual champions Senegal. Additionally, Saintfiet oversaw three friendly matches during his time in charge.
Beyond his tactical contributions, Saintfiet addressed the broader context of instability affecting the country, including security challenges posed by armed groups. In a heartfelt message, he expressed solidarity with the Malian people, calling for unity and resilience during difficult times.
a respected figure in african football
With a career spanning multiple African nations, Saintfiet has established himself as a respected and experienced coach on the continent. Prior to his role with Mali, he managed teams such as Gambia, Togo, Malawi, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, earning a reputation for his ability to develop talent and foster team cohesion in diverse environments.
