The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has fixed October 8 for a landmark hearing that could determine the rightful winners of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The case involves the Senegalese Football Federation, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, following CAF’s decision to award the 2025 title to Morocco under controversial circumstances.

At the centre of the dispute is Senegal’s appeal against the CAF Appeals Board ruling, which held that the national team, popularly known as the Senegal national football team, forfeited the final. This led to a 3-0 administrative victory for Morocco and their declaration as African champions.

CAS confirmed that the hearing will be held behind closed doors after all parties failed to agree on an expedited process.

“The Parties did not agree to expedite this procedure, which is therefore following a standard timeline according to CAS procedural rules. The hearing will take place behind closed doors,” the tribunal stated.

Legal representatives from all parties are expected to present detailed arguments, documentary evidence, and witness testimonies before the arbitration panel.

The outcome will depend on legal interpretations, sporting regulations and the application of CAF’s competition rules. The ruling could either uphold Morocco’s status as champions or overturn the decision, potentially rewriting the tournament’s history.

While the hearing date has been confirmed, CAS has not indicated when a final verdict will be delivered. The panel is expected to deliberate confidentially after the proceedings and issue a written decision at a later date.

Details later…