Morocco submits defence in Senegal can 2025 appeal case

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has officially submitted its defence to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) following Senegal’s appeal against CAF’s decision to award the CAN 2025 hosting rights to Morocco. The submission adheres strictly to all procedural timelines and administrative requirements set by the international sports arbitration body.

Referee during CAN 2025 final between Senegal and Morocco

Next steps at the Court of Arbitration for Sport

The CAS will now review the submissions from both the Moroccan federation and Senegal’s football governing body. This procedural phase follows Senegal’s formal appeal against CAF’s ruling that awarded the tournament to Morocco after the disputed final match.

Contrary to circulating claims about missed deadlines, the FRMF confirms that the defence was filed precisely within the allowed timeframe. According to CAS regulations, submissions due on a Sunday are automatically extended to the next business day. As the defence was submitted on Monday, it remains fully compliant with the applicable rules.

Background of the dispute

Earlier, CAF’s Appeals Committee ruled in favor of Morocco following Senegal’s walkout during the CAN 2025 final, declaring a 3-0 technical victory for the Atlas Lions. Senegal has since contested this decision through legal channels, triggering the current arbitration process.