TAS Suspends Morocco's Awarded CAN 2025 Title Following Senegal's Appeal

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS/TAS) has issued a provisional measure freezing the attribution of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) title to Morocco. This decision follows an urgent appeal lodged by the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) had initially stripped Senegal of its on-field victory and awarded the title to Morocco on administrative grounds.

Key points

• The TAS decision blocks any official effect of the CAF's verdict that designated Morocco as the champion on administrative grounds ('sur tapis vert').
• Senegal, initially the winner on the field, had its title revoked by the CAF for procedural reasons.
• The dispute centers on procedural irregularities allegedly committed by the CAF regarding competition rules and due process.
• The TAS, based in Lausanne, accepted to examine the case urgently to preserve the rights of all parties.
• This unprecedented measure means the CAN 2025 trophy, medals, and associated bonuses are currently blocked.

Why it matters

This legal action by Senegal against the CAF's decision creates an unprecedented situation for a major continental competition, potentially redefining governance and disciplinary procedures within African football.