Tas sets defense deadline for Morocco in can 2025 final appeal

The high-stakes dispute surrounding the CAN 2025 final is poised for a significant development next month, as the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS) has established a crucial deadline for Morocco. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has now received the official date by which it must submit its defense brief.

While the actual CAN 2025 final between Morocco and Senegal concluded dramatically, the subsequent legal battle has proven even more intense. This heated case, now under the jurisdiction of the Tribunal Arbitral du Sport (TAS), is entering a decisive phase. The international sports tribunal has mandated May 7, 2026, as the final date for the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF) to present its comprehensive defense.

Following the TAS’s receipt of the appeal brief filed by the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), proceedings have begun to accelerate. To reiterate, Senegal lodged an appeal against the Confederation of African Football (CAF)’s decision, issued on March 17, which declared Morocco the victor of this CAN edition by a 3-0 forfeit.

The TAS has outlined a precise timeline for this matter. Consequently, the FRMF is required to submit its defense brief by May 7, 2026. The Moroccan federation, through its president, Fouzi Lekjaa, has consistently expressed confidence in the strength of Morocco’s case, citing “convincing and documented” evidence. This includes various official reports, referee statements, and video footage, among other compelling elements.

Nevertheless, the CAN 2025 final dispute is still far from its resolution. As previously announced weeks ago, the procedural timeline will not be expedited, a request initially made by Senegal. This accelerated process was rejected by the other involved parties, namely Morocco and CAF, who prefer to adhere to the standard procedure to ensure ample time for the preparation of their respective arguments.

Therefore, the TAS is expected to follow its conventional schedule for such cases. While Senegal had hoped for a potential verdict before the 2026 World Cup, estimates suggest that a final decision could take between 9 to 12 months. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the ultimate outcome is likely to be announced towards the end of the year.