Moroccan Football Federation president Fouzi Lekjaa says his country will continue to defend its position in the dispute over the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Senegal, insisting that the case must be decided according to the regulations governing the competition.
The dispute is approaching a significant stage, with a hearing before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) scheduled for 8 October. The case has attracted considerable attention since the conclusion of the tournament.
In an interview with Jeune Afrique magazine, Lekjaa said Morocco’s position was based on sporting regulations and the principle of fair play rather than considerations outside football.
He argued that the events surrounding the final, particularly the departure of Senegal’s players and technical staff from the pitch, should be examined in accordance with the applicable rules.
Lekjaa maintained that the Moroccan federation would use legal channels to pursue its position, while emphasising that the regulations should apply equally to all national teams and football associations.
CAS hearing may not settle dispute
The Moroccan football chief cautioned against viewing the forthcoming CAS hearing as the final stage of the dispute.
He explained that the proceedings could involve further steps and additional hearings before a definitive ruling is reached. As a result, the 8 October session should not necessarily be regarded as the conclusion of the case.
Lekjaa said Morocco would remain committed to the legal process and would continue to defend what it considers to be the correct interpretation of the competition’s regulations.
The federation’s position is centred on the belief that sporting rules must be respected without exception, regardless of the national teams or federations involved.
Morocco wants 2030 World Cup final
Lekjaa also discussed Morocco’s ambition to host the final of the 2030 World Cup.
He said the Kingdom would defend its chances of staging the tournament’s most important match while respecting the procedures and regulations established by FIFA for the selection of stadiums and host cities.
The president further addressed his support for FIFA president Gianni Infantino, defending that position as part of his broader view of football as a force capable of bringing people closer together.
At the same time, he highlighted the importance of improving governance, transparency and balance within international football institutions.
His comments come as Morocco prepares for the next stage of its legal challenge over the Africa Cup of Nations final, with the outcome expected to depend on the full course of the proceedings rather than a single hearing.
Lekjaa dismisses speculation over premiership
Away from football, Lekjaa also sought to end speculation that he could become Morocco’s head of government following the country’s legislative elections on 23 September 2026.
The issue arose amid his involvement in political affairs and his decision to join the Authenticity and Modernity Party. Jeune Afrique questioned him about claims that preparations were being made for him to assume governmental responsibilities if the party emerged as the leading force in the election.
Lekjaa rejected the suggestion, saying that becoming prime minister was not part of his plans.
He said he had never considered taking the position and had no intention of doing so, adding that his attention was currently focused on the electoral process.
“I have a mission that ends on September 23.
