The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) officially filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) this Tuesday, March 24, 2026, contesting the decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to withdraw Senegal's right to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This action follows the sanction imposed by CAF, resulting from the Senegalese players' walk-off during the AFCON 2025 final on January 18.
CAF justified its decision by citing serious misconduct by the Senegalese team, considering their behavior during the final to be a violation of regulations. The CAF Appeals Jury therefore decided to award the organization of AFCON 2025 to Morocco, initially designated as the alternate host country.
The FSF has strongly contested this decision, arguing that the sanction was disproportionate and unjustified. It has therefore decided to take the matter to CAS, the highest legal authority in sports, based in Lausanne, Switzerland. The filing of this appeal marks the beginning of a process that could take several months or even years before a final decision is reached.
Contrary to some information that has been circulating, CAS has not yet made a decision regarding this matter. The procedure is still in its early stages, and the court has not yet examined the merits of the case. It is therefore premature to speculate on the outcome of this appeal.
The outcome of this case is uncertain. CAS will have to carefully examine the arguments of both parties, CAF and FSF, before making its decision. This decision will have a significant impact on the organization of AFCON 2025, as well as on the reputation of Senegalese football. The FSF hopes that CAS will recognize the unfair nature of the sanction and restore its right to host the competition.
