Senegal Plans March 28 Celebration at Stade de France Despite CAN 2025 Title Revocation

The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has announced plans to celebrate what was initially their Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2025 victory with a major event at the Stade de France on March 28, 2026, despite the Confederation of African Football (CAF) revoking the title in favor of Morocco.

Originally, Senegal had been crowned African champions on January 18 after defeating Morocco 1-0 in the final. However, following a controversial penalty decision involving Brahim Diaz during the match, CAF reversed the outcome on March 17, declaring Morocco the winner by a 3-0 forfeit. The FSF condemned the ruling as "iniquity," calling it unprecedented and unacceptable, and announced plans to appeal the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS). Although the TAS had not yet received an official appeal request as of the morning of March 18, the FSF emphasized its commitment to sports justice and integrity.

Despite this turmoil, the FSF is moving forward with a friendly match against Peru scheduled at the Stade de France, intending to use the occasion to present the CAN trophy to the Senegalese diaspora in France as a symbol of unity and celebration. The event will be marked by high-profile cultural activities, including performances by notable artists Booba and Youssou N'Dour, underscoring its significance as a communal moment for Senegalese supporters abroad. This planned celebration reflects the federation's determination to maintain the spirit of their team’s on-field achievements while contesting the CAF's decision.

Celebrations in Senegal had already been extensive following the initial victory, including parades in Dakar. The announcement of the CAF decision and the FSF's appeal add a complex layer to the unfolding story as Senegal seeks to reclaim its title through legal channels while honoring its football legacy.

As the appeal process is expected to extend over several months, the March 28 event stands as both a cultural celebration and a powerful statement of resilience by Senegalese football fans and officials.