Morocco opts for standard arbitration in CAN 2025 dispute, delaying resolution

The dispute over the winner of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations CAN is far from resolved, with the Court of Arbitration for Sport CAS set to rule on the case between Senegal and Morocco. The Senegalese Football Federation, which initiated the appeal, requested an accelerated procedure for a quick decision. However, this request was rejected as the Moroccan side opted for a standard procedure, allowing them more time to prepare their defense. This decision means the case could take between nine and twelve months to process, prolonging the uncertainty surrounding the official outcome of the competition and delaying a definitive legal clarification. Currently, the CAN trophy is in Dakar, while Morocco maintains its status as African champion on the international stage. This provisional recognition remains valid for global competitions and events, pending the final decision from CAS.