Achraf Hakimi, captain of Morocco national football team, has declined the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, insisting his team did not earn it on the pitch.
The Paris Saint-Germain defender said he and his teammates should not accept the trophy despite any ruling by Confederation of African Football.
Hakimi made the remarks after Morocco’s defeat to Senegal national football team in the tournament final.
“My mum told me to reject the AFCON trophy. I’m officially rejecting it and hope my teammates do the same. We had a chance but failed to win,” he said.
He acknowledged Senegal’s performance, describing them as deserving champions and warning against actions that could diminish their achievement.
“That’s football. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. Senegal beat us fairly and deserved it. It would be unfair to ruin their joy after their hard work,” Hakimi added.
While respecting CAF’s decision, Hakimi maintained he could not accept a title he believes was not won on merit.
“I respect CAF’s decision, but I’m officially rejecting the trophy. I didn’t win the 2025 AFCON. Congratulations to Senegal once again,” he said.
Morocco were among the tournament favourites but fell short in the final, while Senegal’s victory was widely regarded as deserved.
However, on March 17, 2026, CAF’s Appeal Board ruled in favour of Morocco, citing Senegal’s walk-off as a forfeiture under tournament regulations, overturning the 1–0 result to 3–0.
The Senegalese Football Federation has since announced plans to challenge the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
