Morocco’s Football Federation files defense in CAN 2025 dispute at CAS

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 hosting rights for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) to Morocco.

CAS reviews Morocco’s defense in CAN 2025 hosting dispute

Following the submission, the CAS will now review the defense presented by Morocco’s football governing body. The tribunal will assess all arguments from both sides before making a ruling on the legitimacy of the CAF’s decision to grant hosting rights to Morocco for the 2025 tournament.

The FRMF confirmed that its submission was made strictly in accordance with CAS procedures and within the stipulated deadlines. Earlier reports had suggested potential delays, but Moroccan officials clarified that the filing remains valid.

Legal nuances: how holidays impact CAS deadlines

According to procedural rules, deadlines falling on a Sunday—a public holiday in CAS regulations—are automatically extended to the next business day. This adjustment ensured that Morocco’s submission, filed on Monday, complied fully with the required timelines, effectively dismissing claims of late filing.

Background: the Senegal-Maroc CAN 2025 final controversy

Earlier, the CAF’s Appeals Committee had ruled in favor of Morocco following Senegal’s walkout during the CAN 2025 final. The committee declared Senegal to have forfeited the match, awarding Morocco a 3–0 victory. This decision triggered Senegal’s formal appeal to the CAS, prompting Morocco to present its defense in response.