He came into refereeing in 1984 officiating more than 75 international FIFA matches across the world. He also officiated the final of the Africa Cup of Nations in 1992 between Ghana and Cote d’voire played in Dakar, Senegal. Saine passed away at his home in Rufisque at the age of 71.
In a condolence letter dispatched to the Senegalese Football Federation, GFF President Lamin Kaba Bajo expressed deepest condolences and sympathy through the FSF to the bereaved family on the passing of “one of the best Football brains of Africa.”
On behalf of GFF and the entire Gambia football family, Mr Bajo prayed for Allah (the Almighty) to grant the late Alhagie Badara Saine eternal peace. “This sad incident is a sorrowful and great lost not only for FSF and Senegal but Africa and the world football family,” Bajo added.
The late Football icon is said to have impacted positively on the careers of many Gambians in the sport. Retired Referees Modou Sowe and Alagie Faye including three times African Referee of the Year Bakary Papa Gassama are all said to have had positive influence from the teachings and guidance of the former Senegalese international Referee.
Source-GFF