AFCON 2025 dispute deepens as legal teams clash over Senegal’s title

A growing legal row over the Africa Cup of Nations title shows no sign of easing, as opposing lawyers intensify their arguments ahead of a decisive ruling.

The dispute, which centres on CAF’s decision regarding Senegal’s trophy, has escalated with fresh exchanges between legal representatives from Morocco and Senegal.

On Friday, the Moroccan Bar Association responded firmly through its representative, Mourad Elajouti, challenging the legitimacy of the celebrations.

“In the absence of a suspensive ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), the display of this trophy constitutes a usurpation of title and a manifestly unlawful disturbance under Article 835 of the Code of Civil Procedure ,” he stated.

Legal dispute over Senegal’s AFCON 2025 trophy intensifies

Elajouti argued that Senegal’s trophy should not be publicly celebrated, including during an upcoming match against Peru, as the legal process remains unresolved.

The controversy has drawn wider attention as supporters await clarity on the final outcome.

At the centre of the appeal is Juan de Dios Crespo, the lawyer leading the case before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), who has now outlined his position publicly.

Speaking in an interview with El Partidazo de COPE, Crespo expressed confidence in the case while criticising the decision under dispute.

“The referee starts a match and finishes it, period. I am very optimistic. I hope that by the end of July or in August everything will be over, but I find the decision absolutely unfair and contrary to the law ,” he said.

His remarks underline the legal team’s determination to challenge CAF’s ruling and bring the matter to a close through arbitration.

Despite the ongoing proceedings, uncertainty continues to surround the status of the title.

With no immediate resolution from CAS, both sides appear set to maintain their positions in what has become a highly charged legal battle.

As the process unfolds, attention remains fixed on the arbitration court’s forthcoming decision, which is expected to determine the legitimacy of the contested trophy and bring an end to the dispute.

Le pool d’avocats du Sénégal 🇸🇳 au TAS :

Bâtonnier Aly Fall — Avocat, Bâtonnier 🇸🇳 Sénégal

Me Seydou Diagne Avocat 🇸🇳 Sénégal

Me Moussa Sarr Avocat 🇸🇳 Sénégal

Me Juan de Dios Crespo Pérez Avocat spécialisé en droit du sport 🇪🇸 Espagne

Me Serge Witzo Avocat 🇫🇷 France

Me… pic.twitter.com/UYVI6WcipF

— 13football_com (@13footballC) March 26, 2026