Captain of the Morocco national team, Mr. Achraf Hakimi, has rejected the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, insisting that Morocco did not deserve it following their defeat.

The Paris Saint-Germain defender said neither he nor his teammates should accept the trophy, regardless of any decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

His comments followed Morocco’s loss 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 the same. We had a chance but failed to win,” Hakimi said.

He acknowledged the result, stressing that Senegal were worthy winners and warning against actions that could undermine 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 the hard work,” he said.

Hakimi added that while he respects CAF’s position, he cannot accept a title he believes Morocco did not earn on the pitch.

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

The stance highlights a rare moment in football, with a player declining recognition in favour of sporting integrity.

Morocco had been among the favourites but fell short, while Senegal’s triumph was widely regarded as deserved based on their performance.

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

The Senegalese Football Federation has indicated it will appeal the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.