The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has until May 7 to submit its defense before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS) in the ongoing dispute surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final. This deadline marks the first phase of the legal proceedings, triggered by Senegal’s appeal to the TAS against both the FRMF and the African Football Confederation (CAF).
On March 25, the TAS confirmed receipt of Senegal’s appeal, which contests the CAF Appeal Jury’s March 17 decision to uphold Morocco’s forfait* victory in the final. According to procedural rules, the appellant (Senegal) had a 20-day window to file its legal arguments, while the responding parties (FRMF and CAF) are granted an equal period to prepare their defense.
Senegal’s request for a stay on proceedings has temporarily delayed the establishment of a definitive timetable, leaving the timeline for any potential hearing uncertain. Meanwhile, the FRMF is reportedly assembling a robust legal case, built with meticulous care and confidence in a favorable outcome.
The TAS emphasized its capacity to handle such disputes fairly, with independent and specialized arbitrators ensuring a swift yet equitable resolution. «We recognize the urgency for teams and fans to receive a final decision,» stated Matthieu Reeb, TAS Secretary General. «Our priority is to expedite proceedings without compromising the fundamental rights of all parties involved.»
Senegal’s appeal stems from the controversial final held on January 18, where the Lions of Teranga briefly abandoned the pitch—under orders from coach Pape Thiaw—after a stoppage-time penalty was awarded to Morocco. The CAF later ruled in favor of a forfait* victory for Morocco, a decision Senegal is now challenging on the grounds of alleged procedural irregularities.
Key questions remain unanswered, including whether the TAS will uphold the CAF’s decision or reconsider the outcome based on the evidence presented. With the May 7 deadline looming, legal experts anticipate a rigorous examination of the case’s merits.
what’s next for the can 2025 final dispute?
- May 7: FRMF must file its defense brief with the TAS.
- Undetermined: Potential hearing date, pending resolution of Senegal’s stay request.
- Legal scrutiny: TAS will assess whether CAF’s ruling aligns with competition regulations and fair-play principles.
As the legal battle intensifies, football stakeholders across Africa and beyond await a resolution that could redefine the 2025 CAN champion designation.