Senegal to hold parade in Paris to celebrate AFCON triumph despite CAF ruling

Senegal is set to hold a grand parade in Paris to celebrate its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory in Paris, defying the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) controversial decision to strip the team of the title.

The move, confirmed by Senegal’s football federation, comes as the country remains resolute in defending its achievement on the pitch.

Federation president Abdoulaye Fall called the CAF ruling “the most blatant administrative scam in football history” and said the team’s triumph represents a moment of national pride that cannot be erased.

The parade, scheduled to take place in the French capital, will see players, officials, and fans gather to honour the squad’s historic victory.

Fall emphasized that Senegal would continue its appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), insisting the country’s “honour and legacy” must be upheld.

CAF’s decision has sparked widespread debate across African football circles, with critics questioning the timing and reasoning behind the move.

Despite the controversy, Senegal’s players have expressed their excitement at the upcoming celebration, vowing to share the joy of their AFCON success with supporters at home and abroad.

For Senegal, the Paris parade is more than a celebration—it is a statement that the spirit of the team and its achievement cannot be undone, even in the face of administrative disputes.

Senegal, who have qualified for this year’s World Cup, face Peru in a friendly in Paris on Saturday.