The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has lifted the suspension imposed on Algerian coach Adel Amrouche by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Amrouche, who was coaching Tanzania at the time, was sanctioned after making public allegations against the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) during the tournament in Côte d’Ivoire.
His comments came in the aftermath of Tanzania’s 3-0 defeat to Morocco, where he criticized Morocco’s influence over CAF’s decision-making processes.
“The Moroccan Federation is a proven power in the world of African football. Moreover, during the last match against Morocco, they forced us to play in the evening when we wanted to play in the early afternoon,” Amrouche stated.
“Currently, it is Morocco that manages African football. They also choose their referees, and we remain mere spectators,” the 55-year-old coach added.
Following these remarks, CAF handed Amrouche an eight-match suspension, and he was subsequently dismissed by the Tanzanian Football Federation.
The punishment sparked controversy, with many questioning whether the disciplinary action was excessive.
More than a year after the incident, CAS ruled in favor of Amrouche, annulling the suspension and awarding him $3,336.45 in compensation from CAF.
The decision marks a significant victory for the Algerian coach, who expressed relief at having his reputation restored.
The verdict brings closure to a turbulent chapter in Amrouche’s career, allowing him to move forward without the shadow of the suspension hanging over him.
For the coach, the ruling is not just about financial compensation but about reclaiming his place in the football world.
