Rabat – The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced a series of regulatory changes following the controversy that surrounded the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal.
The decision comes after weeks of debate over the events that took place during the final, which ended with CAF awarding Morocco a 3-0 win after ruling that Senegal had withdrawn from the match.
The case now sits with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which will deliver the final decision.
Reforms after a controversial final
CAF said the new measures aim to strengthen confidence in refereeing and disciplinary bodies. The reforms will focus on referees, VAR use, and judicial committees, including the disciplinary and appeals panels.
In its statement, CAF described what happened in the final as “unacceptable” and stressed that it wants to avoid a repeat of such situations in future competitions.
The governing body also pointed to the positive feedback received during the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, where refereeing standards were widely praised. CAF now aims to return to that level by improving referee training and working closely with FIFA to raise overall standards.
Focus on governance and independence
CAF also addressed the role of its legal and disciplinary structures. It said it will continue to appoint experienced African lawyers and judges to ensure fairness and independence within its decision-making bodies.
The organization stressed that all member associations must be treated equally, without any special treatment or advantage.
CAF president Patrice Motsepe said the reforms followed consultations with legal experts from Africa and abroad. He explained the importance of transparency and acicountability in rebuilding trust.
“We are committed to zero tolerance for corruption and any improper conduct,” he said. “We want to ensure that all associations are treated fairly.”
Turning the page
Motsepe also made it clear that CAF wants to move forward. Speaking after a meeting of the executive committee in Cairo, he said the final remains an important issue but added that the organization has already documented its position.
“There is nothing more to add beyond what has been stated,” he said. “Now we must focus on developing African football.”
He pointed to ongoing competitions, including the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup, as well as upcoming events such as the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
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