CAN 2025 Final Dispute: Senegal-Maroc Case Heads to TAS Hearing

The legal battle surrounding the CAN 2025 final between Senegal and Morocco has escalated to a critical stage. The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) formally filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne on March 25, contesting the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) decision to award the tournament to Morocco via a forfait* following a chaotic final that Senegal had won 1-0 on the field.

Key timeline: Morocco’s defense dossier must be submitted by May 7, marking a pivotal phase in this procedural marathon. The FSF has taken direct aim at both the CAF and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), arguing the decision unfairly disadvantages Senegal.

Procedural Roadmap and Legal Framework

The CAS has confirmed receipt of Senegal’s appeal and initiated the formal arbitration process. Under CAS regulations, the appellant (Senegal) has a 20-day window to submit arguments, followed by an equal period for the respondents (CAF and Morocco) to counter. However, Senegal’s request for a provisional suspension has temporarily paused proceedings, delaying the establishment of a clear hearing schedule.

The dispute centers on the CAF Appeal Jury’s March 17 decision, which overturned the initial on-field result. During the January 18 final, Senegalese players briefly abandoned the pitch in protest against a controversial penalty awarded to Morocco in stoppage time.

Next Steps in the Arbitration Process

The case has transitioned into a full written procedure, where both sides submit evidence. A three-member arbitral panel will be formed: one arbitrator nominated by Senegal, one by the defense (CAF and Morocco), and a neutral president appointed by CAS. After reviewing submissions, the panel will schedule an oral hearing where testimonies will be heard before deliberations commence. While CAS aims for efficiency, a final ruling may take several months to materialize.

Note: *Forfait refers to a match awarded by default when a team fails to appear or completes the match under protest.

The outcome of this arbitration could redefine the legacy of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, with Senegal’s on-field victory hanging in legal limbo until CAS delivers its verdict.