The African Cup of Nations (CAN) 2025 legal saga has taken a dramatic turn as the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS) has set a firm deadline for the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) to submit its defense. The TAS has fixed May 7, 2026 as the final date for the FRMF to file its appeal response, intensifying the pressure on Moroccan authorities and adding another layer of suspense to a case that has gripped the continent for weeks.
Morocco faces tight deadline to defend CAN 2025 title at TAS
The controversy stems from the January 18 final at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, where Senegal walked off the pitch for 15 minutes after a disputed penalty was awarded to Morocco in the 90th minute. The match remained tied at 0-0, but Senegal returned to win in extra time via Pape Gueye’s goal. However, on March 17, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeals Jury overturned the result, declaring Senegal forfeited and awarding Morocco a 3-0 victory.
Senegal has since appealed to the TAS, contesting the decision and demanding the restoration of their championship title. The legal battle has escalated into a high-stakes diplomatic and sporting confrontation, with both nations mobilizing top international sports law firms to strengthen their cases.
Next steps: a procedural marathon with global implications
The timeline remains strict. After Morocco submits its defense by May 7, 2026, CAF and Senegal will have the opportunity to file counterarguments. An oral hearing is highly likely at the TAS headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland, where key witnesses may be called to testify. While both sides have pushed for urgency, the standard TAS process typically spans six to twelve months, delaying any resolution until late 2026.
Regardless of the outcome, the TAS ruling will be final and binding, leaving no room for further appeal. A reversal of the CAF decision would send shockwaves through African football governance and redefine the legacy of CAN 2025.
