Morocco presents defense in CAN 2025 appeal case at TAS

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has formally submitted its defense to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) following Senegal’s appeal against the CAF’s decision to award the CAN 2025 hosting rights to Morocco. Addressing concerns over potential procedural delays, the FRMF asserts that its submission fully complies with all relevant timelines and regulations.

CAS review process underway

The next phase involves a thorough examination of the submitted documents by the CAS arbitration panel. According to informed sources, the Moroccan federation’s filing was completed within the designated administrative window, despite circulating rumors suggesting otherwise.

In response to claims of missed deadlines, the FRMF clarified that the Sunday submission was valid under CAS procedural rules, which automatically extend deadlines to the next business day when a deadline falls on a non-working day. This adjustment ensured the filing was fully compliant with established protocols.

Background of the dispute

The legal contention stems from the CAF Appeals Committee ruling that declared Senegal forfeited in the 2025 CAN final after players left the pitch prematurely, awarding a 3-0 victory to Morocco. Senegal subsequently lodged an appeal with the CAS, prompting Morocco’s formal defense submission.

As the case progresses, both football federations await the CAS’s verdict, which will determine the legitimacy of the CAN 2025 host selection and potentially reshape the tournament’s future.