Morocco threatens legal action amid Senegal’s plans to present AFCON 2025 trophy during upcoming friendly

The ongoing controversy surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has intensified, with Morocco threatening legal action after Senegal announced plans to present the trophy ahead of an upcoming friendly in France.

The dispute arises from the recent decision by the Confederation of African Football to reassign the AFCON 2025 title to the Morocco national football team, overturning the original result that had seen Senegal crowned champions on the pitch.

Senegal’s Trophy Parade Sparks Moroccan Response

Despite the ruling, Senegal maintained their position and were expected to display the trophy before their friendly against Peru national football team at the Stade de France. The announcement triggered a swift reaction from Moroccan officials.

Mourad Elajouti confirmed that formal notices have been sent to the event organisers, including the stadium operators, warning against any public presentation of the trophy. He stated that carrying out the ceremony would amount to recognising a championship that is no longer official.

Legal Measures on the Table

According to Elajouti, following the CAF Appeal Jury’s decision on March 17, the trophy legally belongs to Morocco. Any attempt by Senegal to claim or display it could be deemed an “unlawful act.”

Morocco’s legal team has made it clear that their stance goes beyond preventing the trophy parade. Measures under consideration include placing the trophy under judicial custody until the dispute is fully resolved. The case could also be taken to the Court of Arbitration for Sport if necessary.

Elajouti further warned that anyone facilitating the event could face civil liability claims, including potential damages.

Senegal Stands Firm

Senegal, however, has not backed down. The federation recently submitted its defense as part of ongoing proceedings to contest CAF’s decision. What began as a football disagreement has now escalated into a full-blown legal confrontation between the two federations.

A Tense Standoff Ahead

With both sides unwilling to compromise, tensions continue to rise. The planned trophy presentation could push the dispute to new heights, and further escalation remains a very real possibility. As the battle moves from the pitch to the courtroom, the fight for recognition as African champions shows no signs of slowing.