CAS to hear Senegal appeal over 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) will begin hearing Senegal’s appeal on Thursday against the decision to strip the team of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title.

Senegal originally won the tournament in Morocco, beating the hosts 1-0 in the final. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) later awarded the title to Morocco, withdrew it from Senegal and imposed heavy sanctions on both teams.

The Senegalese Football Federation lodged an appeal with CAS after CAF announced its decision, leaving the sports tribunal to determine who will officially hold the title.

Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo reported that CAS will open proceedings on Thursday to consider Senegal’s challenge against the ruling by the African football governing body.

No verdict is expected on Thursday. CAS has instead committed to issuing its decision in the case as soon as possible.

The hearing will take place behind closed doors. The panel will be chaired by Professor Gerald Simon of France and will also include Professor Luigi Fumagalli of Italy and Professor Dr Ulrich Haas of Germany.

The panel will hear representatives of the Senegalese and Moroccan football federations, alongside representatives of CAF.

All parties have agreed that the hearing will be conducted in French.

If CAS upholds the decision in Morocco’s favour, Morocco will be crowned Africa Cup of Nations champions for the second time. Senegal would likewise be awarded its second title if the tribunal rules in its favour.