By Seedy Jobe
The Ministry of Youth and Sports has renewed the contract of the national team’s head coach, Jonathan McKinstry, extending his tenure through 2028, the government announced on Wednesday.
In a statement dated June 3, the ministry said the renewal, effective June 1, 2026, was made in consultation with the Gambia Football Federation.
Officials said the decision underscored the government’s confidence in Mr. McKinstry’s leadership and his role in advancing the development of football in the country.
“Since taking charge of the national team in June 2024, he has played a significant role in nurturing young talent and strengthening the foundations necessary for sustained success at the international level,” the statement said.
The ministry emphasized that continuity in technical leadership was essential to maintaining progress, adding that the extension would allow Mr. McKinstry to build on recent gains and further strengthen the squad.
Looking ahead, officials expressed optimism about the national team’s prospects, including the anticipated return to hosting competitive matches on home soil — a development they said would boost both player performance and fan support.
The government also reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Gambia Football Federation and other stakeholders to support the team’s bid to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Bakary Y. Badjie, the minister of youth and sports, extended best wishes to Mr. McKinstry and his technical staff, expressing hope that the continued partnership would bring “pride, unity and footballing excellence” to the country.
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