Senegal Defies CAF Ruling, Plans AFCON Trophy Parade in France

Senegal Defies CAF Ruling, Plans AFCON Trophy Parade in France

By Niyi Busari 

Senegal’s national football team is proceeding with plans to publicly present the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy ahead of their international friendly against Peru in France on Saturday, despite a recent decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeals Board to overturn their title, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

According to a matchday programme shared on the team’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, a 15-minute segment titled “official presentation of the African Cup of Nations trophy” is scheduled prior to kickoff, underscoring Senegal’s continued assertion that they remain Africa’s rightful champions.

The controversy stems from a March 17 ruling by CAF’s Appeals Board, which reversed the outcome of the 2025 AFCON tournament in favour of Morocco. 

However, Senegal has challenged the decision and maintains that the ruling lacks legal validity.

Speaking at a press conference in Paris on Thursday, Serge Vittoz, a member of the six-lawyer team representing Senegal, indicated that the trophy presentation would go ahead as planned. “I’ll see you at the Stade de France on March 28,” he said when asked about the scheduled ceremony.

Vittoz argued that the Appeals Board has yet to provide a detailed justification for its decision, calling into question its enforceability. 

“To be valid, a decision must be explained. It has not been, so Senegal are still African champions,” he said.

Another member of the legal team, Seydou Diagne, reinforced this position, stating that CAF has not issued any formal directive requiring Senegal to relinquish the trophy or medals.

“There is no decision today from CAF or its appeals jury that orders the Senegalese Football Federation or the national team to return their medals or the trophy,” Diagne said. 

“To supporters and all those who believe in justice and the integrity of football, there is no cause for concern.”

Meanwhile, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) confirmed on Wednesday that it has received Senegal’s appeal against the CAF ruling and pledged to deliver a decision as quickly as possible.