The protracted wait has concluded. Just prior to the weekend, the Senegalese Football Federation finally obtained the detailed verdict from the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) Appeal Jury, as confirmed this Monday. This crucial document paves the way for Senegal to formally lodge its appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS), aiming to dispute CAF’s contentious decision to award the CAN 2025 championship to Morocco via forfeit.

The transmitted ruling reiterates the Appeal Jury’s declaration of Morocco as the 3-0 victor by forfeit. However, the document explicitly states that the jury’s mandate does not extend to directives concerning prize money, medals, or the actual trophy. Despite this decisive declaration, the CAF Executive Committee has maintained a striking silence regarding an official pronouncement on the ultimate winner of CAN 2025, contributing to significant ambiguity surrounding the tournament’s outcome. The Confederation’s president has merely indicated reliance on the TAS for a final resolution.

tas decision timetable remains unconfirmed

The resolution of this highly contentious CAN 2025 final is anticipated soon, over two months after the match itself, which was marred by numerous supporter clashes and the dramatic walk-off by the Senegalese team. While TAS has not yet provided a definitive timeline, the arbitration body’s deliberations will definitively conclude this protracted saga, ensuring no further avenues for appeal for either side.

Matthieu Reeb, the Director General of TAS, affirmed the institution’s capability, stating, “TAS is exceptionally well-equipped to resolve such disputes, leveraging the expertise of specialized and independent arbitrators.” He further acknowledged the urgency, adding, “We understand that both teams and their supporters are eager for a swift final decision. We are committed to conducting the arbitration process as promptly as possible, while steadfastly upholding the right of all parties to a fair hearing.”