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The controversy surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has escalated, with Morocco threatening legal action in response to Senegal’s plans to present the trophy ahead of an upcoming friendly in France.
The dispute stems from the recent decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to reassign the AFCON 2025 title to the Moroccan national football team, overturning the original outcome that had seen the Senegalese team crowned champions on the pitch.
Despite the ruling, Senegal have maintained their stance and were expected to parade the trophy before their friendly match against Peru at the Stade de France. That move has triggered a strong response from the Moroccan side.
Moroccan lawyer Mourad Elajouti confirmed that formal notices have been sent to the organizers of the event, including the Stade de France operators, warning against any public presentation of the trophy.
According to Elajouti, going through with the celebration would mean recognizing a championship that isn’t even official anymore with a title that has already been revoked by official sporting authorities.
He argued that, following the CAF Appeal Jury’s decision on March 17, the trophy legally belongs to Morocco, and any ‘attempt to display it under Senegal’s claim’ could be considered an ‘unlawful act’.
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Morocco pushes for judicial control of trophy
Morocco’s legal position goes further than just preventing the ceremony. Elajouti indicated that the Moroccan side is prepared to escalate the matter through the courts if necessary.
Among the measures being considered is placing the trophy under judicial custody until the dispute is fully resolved, particularly as the case could still be examined by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The Moroccan legal team also warned that any parties involved in facilitating the event could face claims for damages under civil liability laws.
On the other side, Senegal have not backed down. The federation recently presented its defense as part of ongoing proceedings to contest CAF’s decision.
The legal battle has now moved past football officials and into the courts, showing just how much the relationship between the two federations has broken down. The football disagreement has now turned into a full-on legal battle, as both countries fight for their right to be called African champions.
It seems things are reaching a boiling point and the possibility of further escalation is high, especially if the planned trophy presentation goes ahead.
Read also: Senegal-Peru Friendly Still Without Broadcaster Days Before Kickoff
