The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has heard the Senegalese Football Federation’s appeal against the decision that awarded Morocco the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title. Following a closed-door hearing in Lausanne on October 8, the tribunal is expected to issue its ruling within days. Until then, Morocco remains the official champion under the Confederation of African Football (CAF) decision.
A title awarded under CAF regulations
On March 17, 2026, CAF’s Appeals Board declared Senegal to have forfeited the final and recorded a 3-0 victory for Morocco, applying Articles 82 and 84 of the Africa Cup of Nations regulations.
The January 18 final in Rabat was interrupted after Senegalese players left the pitch in protest following a late penalty awarded to Morocco. Senegal eventually returned to the field, but the match continued into extra time, with Senegal winning 1-0.
CAF subsequently overturned the result, prompting the Senegalese Football Federation to appeal to CAS on March 25. The federation is seeking to overturn the ruling and have Senegal reinstated as champions.
The October 8 hearing took place behind closed doors. CAS Director General Matthieu Reeb said the tribunal expected to deliver a reasoned decision within days, although no specific date was announced.
Morocco turns its attention to futsal
While the legal dispute continues, Morocco is preparing to host another major continental football event. The country welcomes eight national teams for the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations in futsal, scheduled to take place in Rabat from October 12 to 21.
The Atlas Lions will defend their title after winning the 2016, 2020 and 2024 editions. They begin their campaign against Algeria on October 12.
Following the successful organisation of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the futsal tournament offers Morocco another opportunity to showcase its sporting infrastructure and experience in hosting major African competitions.
For now, however, the focus remains on Lausanne, where the forthcoming CAS ruling will determine whether Morocco retains the title awarded by CAF or Senegal regains the crown it initially won on the pitch.
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