I’m Rejecting AFCON Trophy, Teammates Should Too – Hakimi

March 21, 2026

(FILES) Paris Saint-Germain's Moroccan defender #02 Achraf Hakimi looks on during the UEFA Champions League first round day 1 football match between Paris Saint-Germain (FRA) and Atalanta (ITA) at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris on September 17, 2025. Moroccan international and PSG football player Achraf Hakimi is being sent back to trial for the rape of a young woman in February 2023, AFP learned on February 24, 2026 from the player's lawyer and the Nanterre public prosecutor's office. (Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP)

Captain of the Morocco national football team, Achraf Hakimi, has rejected the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, insisting Morocco did not earn it on the pitch.

The Paris Saint-Germain defender made the statement following Morocco’s defeat to Senegal in the tournament final.

“My mum told me to reject the AFCON trophy. I’m officially rejecting it and hope my teammates do same. We had a chance but failed to win,” Hakimi said.

He declared Senegal the worthy winner, cautioning against actions that could diminish their achievement.

I’m Rejecting AFCON Trophy, Teammates Should Too – Hakimi — Achraf Hakimi and his mom, Saida Mouh. Credit: Vanguard

“That’s football, sometimes you win and lose. Senegal beat us fairly and deserved it. It will be unfair to ruin their joy after the hardwork,” he said.

Hakimi also addressed CAF’s ruling, which awarded Morocco the title after Senegal’s walk-off in the final.

“I respect the CAF decision but I’m officially rejecting the trophy. I didn’t win 2025 AFCON. Congratulations to Senegal once again,” he said.

On March 17, 2026, the CAF Appeal Board ruled in favour of Morocco, citing Senegal’s walk-off as a forfeit under tournament regulations and overturning the 1–0 result to 3–0.

Senegal’s Football Federation said it will appeal the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Author

Jimisayo Opanuga

Jimisayo Opanuga is a web writer in the Digital Department at News Central TV, where she covers African and international stories. Her reporting focuses on social issues, health, justice, and the environment, alongside general-interest news. She is passionate about telling stories that inform the public and give voice to underreported communities.