The president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, has stated that he will fully respect and implement the decision of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) regarding the ongoing dispute over the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.
Speaking at a press conference in Cairo, Motsepe emphasized that “my personal opinion is irrelevant” and confirmed that CAF will abide by the CAS ruling once it is delivered.
Background of the Controversy
The conflict emerged from the 18 January 2026 final between Senegal and Morocco in Rabat. Senegal initially won 1–0 in extra time, but the match was clouded by controversy after several Senegalese players and staff left the field to protest a late penalty awarded to Morocco. CAF’s Appeal Board later decided that Senegal forfeited by abandoning the match, awarding Morocco a 3–0 victory.
In response, Senegal’s football federation has taken the case to CAS, requesting that the original result be reinstated.
CAF’s Position and Planned Reforms
Motsepe highlighted that the CAS panel handling the case consists of independent judges, reflecting CAF’s commitment to a fair process. He assured that CAF will follow the court’s ruling without question.
In addition, CAF announced plans to review its rules and regulations, aiming to improve refereeing, VAR operations, and the organization’s judicial procedures, in an effort to prevent similar disputes in the future and restore confidence in African football governance.
Reactions and Next Steps
The appeal underscores Senegal’s dissatisfaction with the reversal of the final’s result, while CAF’s willingness to honor CAS shows its intent to maintain transparency and credibility in handling disputes.
As CAS deliberates, the football community awaits a decision that could not only determine the 2025 AFCON champion but also set a precedent for managing contentious cases in African football.