Patrice Motsepe has defended the integrity and independence of CAF’s judicial structures following the controversial decision to strip Senegal of the 2025 AFCON title and award it to Morocco.
CAF confirmed on Tuesday that Morocco — who had lost 1-0 in the final — would now be recognised as champions, two months after the tournament concluded. Senegal have since indicated their intention to escalate the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Speaking in a video shared by CAF, Motsepe emphasised that the organisation’s disciplinary and appeals bodies operate independently, led by qualified legal professionals drawn from across the continent.
“We will still have to deal with the perceptions and the concerns about the integrity [of CAF],” said Motsepe.
“It’s an ongoing issue. We are very clear at CAF that we are committed to ensuring that not only in terms of what we do because we have implemented best practices.”
He added that CAF had deliberately appointed judges and lawyers from all 54 member associations with proven integrity and experience.
“Partly, the independence is reflected by the decisions that were taken by the two bodies. The CAF disciplinary board took one decision while the CAF appeals board took a totally different position. I am told that Senegal is going to appeal, which is very important.”
Motsepe also stressed that CAF would respect any outcome from CAS, underscoring the right of member associations to seek recourse at the highest level.
“Every one of the 54 nations in Africa has a right to pursue and advance its interests… at the highest body, which is CAS, and we will adhere to and respect the decision that is taken at the highest level,” he said.
“A critical factor is that not a single country in Africa will be treated in a manner that is more preferential or more favourable than any other country.”
OMAR KHYARI CLARIFIES MOROCCO’S STANCE
Meanwhile, Morocco has welcomed the ruling, with Omar Khyari, advisor to Royal Moroccan Football Federation president Fouzi Lekja, clarifying their stance.
Khyari said Morocco’s move was never aimed at disputing results on the pitch.
“Our approach was not intended to challenge the sporting performance of the teams involved,” he explained, “but solely to request the application of the competition regulations.”
He reaffirmed Morocco’s commitment to upholding the rules and safeguarding the integrity of CAF competitions.
“We remain committed to respecting the rules, ensuring clarity in the competitive framework, and maintaining the stability of African competitions,” Khyari added.
He also paid tribute to all participating nations, describing the 2025 AFCON as a significant moment for African football despite the ongoing controversy.