TAS sets deadline for Morocco in CAN 2025 final dispute

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final between Morocco and Senegal has taken a legal turn, with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) imposing a critical deadline on the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) to submit its defense.

The legal battle surrounding the 2025 CAN final, which initially concluded controversially, has escalated into a formal dispute now under CAS review. The African Football Confederation (CAF) had previously awarded Morocco a 3-0 victory by default, a decision Senegal quickly challenged in appeal.

The Tribunal Arbitral du Sport (TAS) has set May 7, 2026, as the final date for the FRMF to present its defense. This follows the submission of Senegal’s appeal, which contested the CAF’s ruling. Senegal’s football federation argued that the original decision lacked sufficient justification, prompting the case to be elevated to the international tribunal.

The FRMF, led by president Fouzi Lekjaa, has expressed confidence in Morocco’s legal position. According to Lekjaa, the federation possesses “irrefutable evidence”, including official reports, referee evaluations, and video footage, to support its case. However, the legal process is expected to unfold over several months.

What’s next in the CAN 2025 final legal battle

Despite Senegal’s push for a faster resolution, the TAS has opted for a standard procedural timeline. The tribunal has rejected requests for an expedited ruling, emphasizing the need for thorough review. This means the final verdict could take anywhere from 9 to 12 months, pushing the likely conclusion into late 2026—well after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The timeline includes:

• FRMF defense submission by May 7, 2026
• Subsequent review and counterarguments
• Final decision expected in late 2026

This delay ensures both parties have adequate time to prepare their legal arguments, avoiding rushed decisions that could impact fairness.

Implications for Morocco, Senegal, and African football

The outcome of this case carries significant weight for both nations and the broader African football landscape. A favorable ruling for Morocco would solidify its claim as the legitimate 2025 CAN champion, while a reversal could reignite debates over officiating standards in African tournaments.

The CAF, although initially involved, has distanced itself from the legal proceedings, allowing the TAS to operate independently. This separation underscores the tribunal’s role as an impartial arbiter in resolving high-stakes sports disputes.

Key takeaways

• The TAS has set May 7, 2026, as the deadline for Morocco to submit its defense in the CAN 2025 final dispute.
• Senegal’s appeal challenged the CAF’s default 3-0 victory awarded to Morocco.
• The tribunal has rejected requests for a faster ruling, opting for a standard 9–12 month process.
• Morocco claims to have “irrefutable evidence” supporting its case.
• A final decision is likely to be delivered in late 2026.