The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has until May 7 to submit its defense brief to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS) in the ongoing legal dispute tied to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final. This deadline marks the initial legal window for the federation to respond after the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) filed an appeal with the TAS against both the FRMF and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Procedural timeline and key deadlines
Following TAS’s confirmation of receipt of the FSF’s appeal on March 25, the governing body outlined the procedural framework. Under standard rules, the appealing party—here, the FSF—has 20 days to file its appeal brief detailing the legal arguments. The opposing parties, including the FRMF, are then granted an equal period to prepare and submit their counterarguments.
The FSF has requested a suspension of proceedings, which has prevented the TAS from establishing a concrete timeline or setting a potential hearing date at this stage.
FRMF builds robust legal strategy
According to insiders, the FRMF is assembling a meticulously prepared legal dossier, reflecting confidence in the eventual outcome of the arbitration process. The federation’s approach combines thoroughness with strategic clarity, aiming to present a compelling case before the TAS.
Matthieu Reeb, TAS General Director, underscored the tribunal’s capability to adjudicate such disputes fairly and efficiently. He emphasized the organization’s commitment to expediting proceedings while ensuring all parties receive a just hearing. “The TAS is fully equipped to handle these matters with the support of specialized and independent arbitrators. We understand the urgency for teams and fans awaiting a resolution. Our priority is to move forward promptly while safeguarding the rights of every stakeholder involved.”
Background of the dispute
The FSF is contesting the March 17 ruling by the CAF Appeals Jury, which upheld Senegal’s defeat by default in the 2025 CAN final. This decision stemmed from a protest lodged by the FRMF regarding the application of Articles 82 and 84 of the competition’s regulations.
On January 18, the match day, Senegalese players left the field for 16 minutes under the instructions of their coach, Pape Thiaw, in protest of a late penalty awarded to Morocco during stoppage time of the second half.
Initially, Senegal had secured victory through a 94th-minute goal by Pape Gueye, only for the subsequent verdict to reverse the outcome entirely.
