Morocco Crowned 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Champion Amidst Controversy

Morocco has been officially declared the 2025 African champion following a decision by the CAF Appeal Jury on Tuesday, November 17, 2026. The ruling, based on articles 82 and 84 of the CAN regulations, ratified a 3-0 victory for the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) against the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF). The decision, however, continues to spark debate regarding its merits and the length of time taken to reach a resolution.

The Ruling and its Legal Basis

The CAF Appeal Jury’s decision hinged on the application of articles 82 and 84 of the CAF Competition Regulations. According to Me Renaud Duchêne, a lawyer specializing in sports law at the Paris and Brussels bars, the regulations were “strictly applied” at the appeal level. He explained that although CAF bodies initially ruled on the matter, the validation was confirmed during the appeal process.

The controversy stems from events during the final match on January 18. Duchêne, who was present at the Moulay Abdellah Complex, noted that Senegal’s refusal to resume play and subsequent departure from the field could have been considered abandonment of the match under the regulations. The referee, however, did not immediately end the match, a decision Duchêne found surprising given the gravity of such a ruling.

Timeline and Procedural Consistency

The two-month delay between the final and the crowning of Morocco drew criticism. Duchêne, however, defended the timeline, stating that while unusual from a sporting perspective, it was consistent with the procedural requirements. The process involved a first instance ruling followed by an appeal lodged by the FRMF, culminating in the CAF’s decision.

Senegal’s Appeal to CAS

The Senegalese Football Federation has announced its intention to appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, Switzerland. Duchêne clarified that CAS operates as a higher level of jurisdiction, independent of the confederation. An appeal to CAS does not automatically invalidate the CAF decision but allows for re-examination of the case.

CAS Process and Potential Outcomes

The CAS process is an arbitration, not a judicial procedure. Each federation appoints an arbitrator, and CAS appoints a president to the arbitral college. Parties submit briefs, and the arbitrators render a collegial, independent, and impartial decision.

The CAS will primarily assess the conformity of the CAF decision with the applicable regulations, focusing on the correct application of the rules and adherence to procedural guarantees. Duchêne emphasized that the CAS does not seek “improbable” elements but rather ensures the rules were properly followed.

Two potential outcomes exist: the CAS could confirm Morocco’s title, or it could overturn the decision, potentially restoring the championship to Senegal. Duchêne believes that with a strong defense and competent legal representation, the procedure should follow a coherent legal logic, suggesting a favorable outcome for Morocco.

Key Takeaways

• Morocco has been officially crowned the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations champion by the CAF Appeal Jury.
• The decision was based on Senegal’s abandonment of the final match and the application of CAF regulations.
• Senegal is appealing the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
• The CAS will assess the conformity of the CAF decision with the applicable regulations.