Confederation of African Football strips Senegal of CAN 2025 hosting rights

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) made headlines three weeks ago by revoking the hosting rights for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) from Senegal, awarding them to Morocco instead. This decision followed chaotic scenes in the final minutes of the January 18 match in Rabat, which overshadowed the event.

On Monday, the Senegalese Football Federation officially received the CAF’s notification along with the detailed rationale behind the controversial decision. This step clears the way for Senegal to formally challenge the ruling through the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), as reported by RMC Sport.

CAS to deliver verdict swiftly on CAN 2025 appeal

The CAF President has publicly deferred to the CAS for a final resolution. While the tribunal has not disclosed a timeline, an expedited ruling is expected within weeks. This urgency stems from the fact that both Senegal and Morocco will lose their right to appeal once the decision is rendered.

«The CAS is fully equipped to handle this dispute with specialized and independent arbitrators,» stated Me Matthieu Reeb, CAS General Secretary. «We recognize the urgency for both teams and fans to receive a final decision. We are committed to accelerating the arbitration process while ensuring all parties receive a fair hearing.»