Presentation of the 2025 AFCON trophy: Morocco openly threatens Senegal

Africa 27 March 2026 at 07:19

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI

News Editor

28.03.26 FT Friendly International

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Tensions are escalating around AFCON 2025, as a legal showdown is now pitting Morocco against Senegal. On the eve of a ceremony scheduled at the Stade de France, Senegal’s plan to present the trophy has triggered a firm response from the Moroccan camp, which is challenging the legitimacy of this initiative.

A legal battle with major consequences

Speaking through Me Mourad Elajouti, Morocco is raising its voice and issuing a clear threat to the organizers and all involved parties.

“This morning, we sent two formal notices to the Stade de France Operating Company and the GL Events group. By assisting in a ceremony based on a revoked title, these entities are directly liable. The Senegalese Football Federation had announced a trophy presentation ceremony for March 28 at the Stade de France. This celebration is based on a title from which the FSF was officially stripped by international sporting authorities.”

The argument is based on a decision by the CAF Appeals Jury, cited with authority:

“By a final decision handed down on March 17, 2026, the CAF Appeals Jury reassigned the title to Morocco. In the absence of a suspensive decision from CAS, displaying this trophy amounts to title usurpation and a manifestly unlawful disturbance under Art. 835 of the CPC. Any continuation of the event will result in claims for damages based on Art. 1240 of the Civil Code (tort liability). We reserve the right to urgently request the judicial sequestration of the trophy (Art. 1961 of the Civil Code). Without a legal or contractual right of possession, the disputed item must be placed under the care of a court-appointed officer.”

Also read: World Cup 2026 play-off finals: all the fixtures revealed! (Official)

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