Senegal national football team is moving ahead with
plans to publicly display the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations trophy ahead of their
friendly match against Peru in France, despite a controversial ruling by the
Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeals Board overturning their title.
Details from the team’s official matchday programme
reveal that a special 15-minute segment has been scheduled before kickoff for
the ceremonial presentation of the trophy—an indication that Senegal continues
to regard itself as the rightful champions of Africa.
The dispute follows a March 17 decision by CAF’s
Appeals Board, which reversed the AFCON outcome in favour of Morocco. However,
Senegal has strongly contested the ruling, arguing that it lacks proper legal
backing.
Speaking at a press briefing in Paris, legal
representative Serge Vittoz confirmed that the trophy presentation would
proceed as planned, inviting observers to witness the event at the Stade de
France.
Vittoz questioned the validity of CAF’s decision,
stating that no detailed explanation had been provided, which, in his view,
undermines its enforceability. He maintained that until a clear justification
is issued, Senegal remains the legitimate title holder.
Another member of the legal team, Seydou Diagne,
supported this position, noting that CAF has not formally instructed the
Senegalese Football Federation or the players to return the trophy or medals.
He reassured supporters that there is currently no
binding directive requiring Senegal to relinquish its honours, urging
confidence in the legal process and the integrity of the sport.
Meanwhile, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)
has acknowledged receipt of Senegal’s appeal and indicated that a decision will
be delivered as quickly as possible, as the football world awaits the outcome
of the high-profile dispute.
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