The President of the Confederation of African Football, Patrice Motsepe, has affirmed that the governing body will respect any verdict delivered by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in the escalating dispute over Senegal’s stripped 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title.
His remarks follow a controversial ruling by CAF’s Appeals Board on March 17, which overturned Senegal’s 1-0 victory over Morocco in the January final. Citing Articles 82 and 84 of the competition’s regulations, the panel awarded a 3-0 forfeiture win to Morocco.
The decision stemmed from a 15-minute walk-off by Senegalese players late in the match, in protest against a penalty awarded to the host nation. Although play resumed and Senegal went on to win in extra time, the Appeals Board ruled that the protest constituted a breach warranting forfeiture.
Speaking a day later, Motsepe underscored the right of member associations to seek redress beyond CAF’s internal structures.
“Senegal is expected to appeal, which is important,” he said in a video released by CAF. “All 54 member associations have the right to pursue their cases at the highest level, not only within CAF but also at CAS. We will respect whatever decision is ultimately taken.”
The ruling has sparked widespread backlash, particularly in Senegal, where government officials have described the outcome as “grossly illegal” and called for an independent international probe into alleged corruption within CAF.
Morocco have since been formally declared champions, securing their first AFCON title since 1976.
