Patrice Motsepe addresses CAN 2025 final controversy and corruption allegations from Rabat
via Le Matin3 min read
Patrice Motsepe, president of the Confederation of African Football CAF, has embarked on a tour between Dakar and Rabat to address the fallout from the CAN 2025 final verdict. Following a meeting with Lekjaâ, also CAF's first vice-president, Motsepe spoke to the Moroccan press, aiming to regain control of the situation. He expressed disappointment over the events that marred the final, stating that the matter is now in the hands of the Court of Arbitration for Sport TAS. Motsepe believes the TAS decision will help reconcile Senegal, Morocco, and the 54 African nations. He also praised Morocco's organization of the event, calling it the "most successful CAN in history." Addressing accusations of corruption, particularly from Senegal, Motsepe encouraged anyone with evidence to pursue legal action, stating he has nothing to hide and that independent investigations are underway. He dismissed some accusations as "unfounded." Regarding the Senegalese supporters arrested in Rabat, Motsepe adopted a cautious stance, emphasizing respect for judicial sovereignty and suggesting a resolution through dialogue between states. He clarified that CAF's role is limited to sports responsibilities, not interference in national legal procedures. Looking to the future, Motsepe reaffirmed support for the "Pamoja 2027" project, confirming that the CAN 2027 will take place in East Africa, hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, from June 19 to July 18. He expressed confidence despite infrastructure co
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Must ReadThe European Union's Ambassador to Morocco, Dimiter Tzantchev, stated on Friday that "it is not time to escalate, but to negotiate," referencing UN Security Council Resolution 2797. He emphasized that Morocco's autonomy plan should form the basis for achieving "a just, lasting and mutually acceptable solution" to the Western Sahara dispute. This statement follows several international condemnations of attacks targeting Smara and calls to preserve diplomatic efforts under the United Nations.
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