Senegal’s AFCON Title Dispute Heads for Crucial CAS Verdict in November 2026

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has confirmed that its ruling on Senegal’s appeal against the withdrawal of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title is expected at the end of November 2026. The case follows a controversial decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to strip Senegal of the championship and award the title to Morocco instead. Senegal is challenging the ruling, seeking to overturn a decision that has cast uncertainty over the outcome of the tournament’s final.

Senegal originally secured the AFCON title after defeating host nation Morocco 1-0 following extra time in the final held in Rabat in January 2026. However, the match was overshadowed by a major controversy late in normal time when the referee awarded Morocco a penalty. Several Senegalese players left the pitch in protest, with some heading toward the dressing room before the team eventually returned to continue the game. The incident became the central issue in the subsequent disciplinary proceedings.

Morocco failed to convert the penalty, and the match proceeded into extra time, where Senegal scored the decisive goal to claim victory. Despite the result on the field, CAF’s Appeals Board overturned the outcome two months later, ruling that Senegal had forfeited the match by leaving the pitch. As a consequence, the original result was annulled and Morocco was awarded a 3-0 victory, effectively transferring the AFCON title to the host nation.

Senegal responded by taking the case to CAS, arguing against CAF’s decision and seeking to have their championship restored. The sports tribunal had initially suggested that a ruling might be delivered shortly after the preliminary hearing. However, CAS has since confirmed that it will issue a full decision at the end of November, including the legal reasoning behind its judgment. The additional time reflects the need to examine procedural questions and the legal arguments raised during the appeal.

The delayed verdict has left supporters of both nations waiting for a definitive resolution to one of the most contentious episodes in recent African football. CAS Director General Matthieu Reeb has acknowledged the frustration caused by the prolonged process, particularly for fans who have followed the dispute since the final in January. The upcoming ruling will determine whether CAF’s decision stands or Senegal can reclaim the title they originally won on the pitch, bringing an important chapter in the tournament’s history closer to a conclusion.