Frrf faces may deadline in can 2025 final dispute at cas
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has until May 7 to submit its defense before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in the ongoing dispute over the CAN 2025 final. This deadline marks the first legal phase for the FRMF to present its case after the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) filed an appeal against both the FRMF and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Procedural timeline and legal framework
On March 25, the CAS confirmed receipt of the FSF‘s appeal, initiating a structured legal process. Under the rules, the appellant—here, the FSF—has 20 days to file its appeal brief outlining its legal arguments. The opposing parties, including the FRMF, then receive an equal period to respond with their defense. However, the FSF has requested a suspension of proceedings, which has delayed the establishment of a definitive timeline or hearing date.
According to informed sources, the FRMF is confidently preparing a meticulously crafted legal dossier, reflecting both rigor and composure. The federation anticipates a favorable resolution, grounded in solid arguments.
CAS commitment to fairness and urgency
Matthieu Reeb, CAS Secretary General, emphasized the tribunal’s capability to handle such disputes with expertise and independence. «The CAS is fully equipped with specialized and impartial arbitrators. We acknowledge the eagerness of teams and fans to receive a swift decision. Our priority is to ensure the process adheres to strict legal standards while respecting each party’s right to a fair trial», he stated.
Background of the dispute
The legal battle stems from the FSF‘s appeal against the CAF Appeal Jury‘s decision on March 17, which upheld Senegal’s forfeit victory in the CAN 2025 final. This decision followed the FRMF‘s initial appeal based on alleged violations of competition regulations, specifically Articles 82 and 84.
The incident that triggered the dispute occurred on January 18, during the final match. Senegalese players, under the direction of coach Pape Thiaw, abandoned the field for 16 minutes in protest of a penalty awarded to Morocco in stoppage time of the second half.
The FRMF has since maintained its position, asserting that the match’s outcome should stand in accordance with competition rules and procedural fairness.
