Can 2025 final outcome delayed as tas imposes new deadline on Morocco

The African Cup of Nations (CAN) 2025 saga has taken another dramatic turn, with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS) setting a strict deadline for Morocco’s football governing body to submit its defense. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) now has until May 7, 2026 to file its case, intensifying the pressure on the organization and keeping the entire continent on tenterhooks.

Morocco faces TAS deadline to defend its controversial CAN 2025 title

The stormy final between Morocco and Senegal at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on January 18 ended in chaos. After a scoreless draw at full time, a disputed penalty awarded to Morocco triggered a 15-minute walkout by the Senegalese players. Though they returned and won in extra time via a goal by Pape Gueye, the CAF Appeals Jury overturned the result on March 17, declaring Senegal forfeited and awarding a 3-0 victory to Morocco. This decision is now under fierce challenge by the Senegalese Football Federation at the TAS.

The legal battle is heating up. While Senegal pushed for an expedited process, Morocco successfully argued for standard timelines, forcing both sides into a prolonged dispute. Following Morocco’s defense filing on May 7, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and Senegal will have the opportunity to respond. A face-to-face hearing at the TAS headquarters in Lausanne is likely, potentially involving key witnesses. Both federations are reportedly enlisting top international sports law firms, turning this case into a high-stakes legal and diplomatic showdown.

The final verdict remains months away. A typical TAS case can take between six and twelve months to resolve. As a result, the identity of the true 2025 African champions may remain uncertain well into late 2026. One thing is certain: the ruling will be binding and final, leaving no room for appeal. Should the TAS overturn the CAF’s decision, it would send shockwaves through African football governance.