FACT CHECK: Has Achraf Hakimi Rejected the AFCON Trophy?

Mixed reactions have emerged following a decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeals Board to strip Senegal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title and award it to Morocco.

CAF explained that the ruling followed an incident in which Senegal allegedly staged a walkout during the final.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe defended the decision, stressing that the disciplinary and appeals boards operate independently.

“The CAF Disciplinary and Appeal Boards are independent entities made up of respected lawyers and judges from across Africa. Their rulings must be respected to maintain the integrity and credibility of African football,” he said.

Global Reactions After CAF Awards Morocco AFCON 2025 Title

Since the ruling was made, several football figures have weighed in on the decision.

Pep Guardiola, head coach of Manchester City, criticised the lack of transparency in such rulings.

“It’s a decision made behind the scenes. What happens everywhere is what we see… you don’t see their faces,” he said.

Also Read: Senegal to Appeal After CAF Awarded AFCON 2025 Title to Morocco

Meanwhile, Nuno Espírito Santo, manager of West Ham United, stressed that results should be determined on the pitch.

“What happens on the pitch stays on the pitch,” he said.

Viral Hakimi Claim

A claim has also emerged following the ruling, sparking online debate, particularly over alleged remarks by Achraf Hakimi

According to posts circulating on social media, Hakimi allegedly rejected the AFCON title and praised Senegal for a fair win. However, a fact check shows that the claim is fabricated.

Also Read: Mane Breaks Silence After CAF Strips Senegal of AFCON Title, Awards it to Morocco

There is no official statement, interview, or credible media report confirming that Hakimi made such remarks.

Additionally, the quote appears to have originated from social media accounts known for sharing unverified or misleading content, suggesting a coordinated attempt to push a false narrative.

Senegal Appeals Decision

Senegal has since filed an appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, Switzerland.

The Senegalese Football Federation described CAF’s decision as “unfair, unprecedented, and unacceptable,” warning that it risks damaging the credibility of African football.

The Senegalese government has also criticised the ruling, arguing that it contradicts fundamental principles of sporting fairness and the outcome of the match on the pitch.

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AFCON trophy. PHOTO/File.