By OkayGoal 
President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr. Patrice Motsepe, has stood by the autonomy of the organization’s disciplinary structures following widespread criticism over Senegal’s removal as 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champions.
In a statement released via video on Wednesday, Motsepe highlighted the importance of respecting the rulings of CAF’s Disciplinary and Appeals Boards.
“It is important that the decisions of our Disciplinary Board and Appeals Board are viewed with respect and integrity,” he said.
“If you look at the composition of those bodies, they âreflect some of the most ârespected lawyers and judges â on the continent.
“But we will still have to deal with this perception and concerns about the integrity. It’s an ongoing issue.”
The controversy arose after Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 in the January final, a match marked by a 17-minute walk-off by the Senegalese side in protest of a late penalty awarded to the hosts.
CAF later cited breaches of its disciplinary code when overturning the result.
Motsepe acknowledged that the ruling has sparked intense debate but insisted that the independence and expertise of CAF’s disciplinary bodies meet the highest legal standards in African football.
He also admitted that restoring public confidence in CAF’s decisions will remain an ongoing challenge.
Senegal has confirmed it will appeal the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport in the coming days.