CAS humiliates CAF: A damning verdict that shakes the credibility of African football’s governing body

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has delivered a scathing verdict that exposes the deep flaws within the Confederation of African Football (CAF). By overturning CAF’s decision to approve RS Berkane’s controversial jerseys, CAS has not only corrected a regulatory violation but has also shed light on severe governance and integrity failures within the organization.

However, this ruling extends beyond a simple legal dispute. It highlights a far more alarming issue: the growing political influence over CAF and the persistent suspicions of corruption that tarnish its management. The CAS decision serves as a clear condemnation, raising a crucial question: Is CAF still a credible and impartial institution, or has it become a tool for vested interests?

A ruling that exposes CAF’s failings

The controversy erupted in April 2024 when CAF approved RS Berkane’s jerseys, which featured a map of Morocco that included Western Sahara—an internationally disputed territory. This decision directly contradicted CAF and FIFA regulations, which strictly prohibit any political symbols or messages on player equipment.

The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) and USM Alger swiftly reacted by filing a case with CAS, arguing that CAF had blatantly violated its own rules and compromised the principle of political neutrality in football. After months of legal proceedings, CAS issued its ruling on February 26, 2025, siding with Algeria and delivering a severe blow to CAF.

The ruling not only annulled CAF’s decision but also explicitly reminded the organization of its obligation to maintain political neutrality. This statement speaks volumes, subtly implying that CAF has deviated from its role as an independent sporting body.

Is CAF under Moroccan influence?

This verdict further reinforces growing suspicions that Morocco has gained disproportionate influence over CAF’s decision-making processes. The RS Berkane case is just one example in a series of controversial events that suggest manipulation and external interference in the organization’s affairs.

During the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, Algeria’s elimination against Cameroon was marred by highly questionable refereeing decisions. Many in the football world speculated that CAF’s internal politics played a role in the officiating, further fueling concerns over the organization’s transparency.

Another glaring example is the awarding of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Despite Algeria boasting world-class stadiums and infrastructure ready to host the tournament, CAF chose Morocco, whose facilities were not yet up to standard. This decision raised serious questions about the selection criteria and reinforced the perception that CAF’s choices are driven by external pressures rather than objective assessments.

The CAS ruling does not merely highlight an administrative error—it exposes a fundamental problem within CAF: a lack of independence in its decision-making. This raises serious concerns about whether the organization can still function as an impartial governing body for African football.

A crushing defeat for CAF, a major victory for Algeria

This ruling is a humiliating setback for CAF, which now faces further scrutiny over its governance. With its credibility already in question following multiple scandals and controversial decisions, CAF has suffered yet another blow that calls into question its ability to govern fairly.

For Algeria, this legal triumph extends beyond the football field. By successfully challenging CAF’s ruling, the Algerian Football Federation and USM Alger have demonstrated that CAF’s decisions are not beyond reproach. This victory could encourage other African federations to seek legal recourse whenever they feel unfairly treated by CAF, setting a precedent for greater accountability in African football.

But the bigger question remains: Will CAF learn from this debacle and take steps to restore its integrity, or will it continue down a path of questionable decisions that erode trust in its leadership?

What does the future hold for CAF?

This ruling could mark a turning point for African football. By proving that CAF’s decisions can be legally challenged and overturned, it paves the way for increased oversight and accountability within the organization.

If CAF is serious about restoring its credibility, it must implement significant reforms to ensure fair and transparent decision-making. It must also enforce its regulations consistently, free from political or external interference.

Failure to do so could lead to further loss of trust, increased legal challenges, and a weakened authority over African football.

One thing is certain: Algeria’s victory in this legal battle sends a strong message—justice can prevail, even in the face of political and sporting pressures. As for CAF, it now stands at a crossroads: either it learns from this crisis and undertakes reforms to restore its credibility, or it continues down a path of controversy that will only further damage its standing in global football.