AFCON 2025: France congratulates Morocco after AFCON ruling to strip Senegal of title

France has officially congratulated Morocco on being awarded the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, becoming one of the first governments to publicly react following the controversial decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeals Committee to strip Senegal of their victory.

The French embassy in Rabat issued a brief but symbolic message shortly after CAF confirmed the ruling, stating: “Congratulations to the Moroccan national team ,” the French embassy wrote. The message, widely interpreted as reflecting the position of the French government, adds a diplomatic dimension to a decision that has already sparked intense debate across African football.

The ruling, delivered by CAF’s Appeals Committee in Cairo, overturned the original outcome of the AFCON final played on 18 January in Rabat. Senegal, who had initially won the match 1-0, were later deemed to have forfeited the game following an appeal lodged by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF).

CAF ruled that Senegal’s actions during the final – specifically their decision to leave the pitch in protest over a late penalty awarded to Morocco – constituted a breach of Articles 82 and 84 of the competition regulations. These provisions state that any team abandoning the field of play without the referee’s permission may be considered to have forfeited the match.

As a result, the Appeals Committee awarded Morocco a 3-0 victory by default, handing the North African side their first AFCON title in 50 years.

Diplomatic backing amid football controversy

France’s swift congratulatory message is significant given its close diplomatic and historical ties with Morocco, as well as its strong links with African football more broadly.

👏 Félicitations à l’équipe nationale marocaine ! https://t.co/oxpMCZNSFq

— La France au Maroc 🇫🇷🇪🇺 (@AmbaFranceMaroc) March 17, 2026

The reaction from the French embassy signals support for the official outcome of the CAF process, even as the decision continues to divide opinion across the continent.

Morocco’s own response to the ruling has been measured, with the FRMF stating that its appeal was not intended to challenge Senegal’s on-field performance but rather to ensure the correct application of regulations.

“The Royal Moroccan Football Federation acknowledges the decision rendered by the CAF Appeals Committee,” the federation said, adding that it remains committed to “respecting the rules” and ensuring “the stability of African competitions.”

France’s message of congratulations aligns with Morocco’s position, focusing on recognition of the official result rather than engaging in the wider controversy.

Strong opposition from Senegal

In contrast, Senegal have strongly rejected the ruling and are preparing to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

The decision has been described by senior Senegalese figures as unprecedented, with criticism also directed at the timing of the verdict, which came two months after the final.

The original match had been overshadowed by chaotic scenes, including a 15-minute stoppage after Senegalese players left the pitch in protest. Despite the disruption, the game resumed and Senegal went on to score a late winner through Pape Gueye.

CAF’s disciplinary bodies initially sanctioned both teams but allowed the result to stand, before the Appeals Committee reversed that decision following Morocco’s appeal.

Wider implications for African football

The involvement of a major international actor such as France highlights the broader significance of the ruling beyond the football pitch.

The controversy has raised questions about governance, consistency and the interpretation of regulations within African football, with observers warning that the decision could have lasting implications for the credibility of CAF competitions.

France’s public support for Morocco may also influence how the decision is perceived internationally, particularly as Morocco continues to position itself as a major host of global sporting events, including the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Awaiting the next chapter

With Senegal set to challenge the ruling at CAS, the final outcome of the 2025 AFCON remains uncertain.

For now, however, Morocco are officially recognised as African champions, with France among the first to acknowledge the decision on the international stage.

As reactions continue to emerge from across the football world, the episode has become one of the most controversial moments in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations, with diplomatic voices now joining the sporting debate.