The dispute over the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy has escalated into a full legal showdown.

Senegal had planned to hold a public ceremony at the Stade de France before their friendly against Peru on Saturday, March 28, 2026, to showcase what they consider their rightful continental crown.

However, Morocco has now intervened, with legal representatives sending a formal notice to block the event.

Moroccan lawyers argue that the trophy officially belongs to their nation following the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) decision to award Morocco the 2025 title after Senegal left the pitch during the final. Any ceremony by Senegal, they contend, could be seen as an illegal claim to the championship.

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According to African football journalist Micky Junior, the notice warns of serious consequences should Senegal proceed. These include the potential halting of the parade, seizure of the trophy, and possible lawsuits that could carry financial penalties for the organizers.

What began as a football dispute has now clearly expanded into a legal confrontation, reflecting the intensity of the AFCON 2025 controversy.

Senegal insists on maintaining its claim, citing principles and contesting CAF’s reversal, while Morocco moves to enforce the confederation’s official ruling.

With the Stade de France ceremony scheduled ahead of the Peru match, all eyes are now on whether Senegal will proceed and how Moroccan legal threats will be enforced.

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