Former Ballon d'Or winner George Weah has strongly criticized the Confederation of African Football's (CAF) decision to award the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to Morocco, a title initially won by Senegal. This decision follows an appeal by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), challenging the outcome of the final where Senegal defeated Morocco.
According to the CAF Appeal Board, the temporary abandonment of the field by Senegalese players during the final constitutes a forfeit, thus nullifying Senegal's initial victory. Consequently, Morocco was declared the default winner with a score of 3-0.
Weah, the only African Ballon d'Or recipient, denounced this decision, calling it detrimental to the fairness and integrity of African football. "This decision has further tarnished the image of African football, undermining confidence in the fairness, consistency, and integrity of football on the continent," he stated.
The former President of Liberia insisted that football matches must be decided on the pitch and not be re-judged after the final whistle. He recalled that, according to the Laws of the Game, the referee is the supreme authority during the match and that his decisions are final. Weah also pointed out that the referee's report mentioned a stoppage of play and not a forfeit.
Weah called on the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and other relevant authorities to intervene so that "this travesty does not stand". He also denied rumors circulating on social media that he supports the CAF decision.
The CAF's decision has sparked strong reactions, with the Senegalese government denouncing an "unfair" decision and announcing its intention to pursue all legal avenues to contest it. The Senegalese Football Federation has also mandated its lawyers to take the case to CAS.
In the meantime, Morocco is preparing to host AFCON 2025 with this newly acquired title, while the controversy continues to fuel debates about the integrity of African football.
