George Weah criticizes CAF over AFCON controversy

George Weah has harshly criticized the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following its decision to strip Senegal of the AFCON 2025 trophy.

Weah emphasized that football decisions must be made on the field of play, citing the Laws of the Game and CAF regulations:

“In football, the referee on the field of play is the highest authority. Once the match continues and concludes, the result must stand. In the African Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco, the referee allowed the match to continue after Senegal’s withdrawal, and it was completed, including extra time. The referee’s report confirmed a stoppage, not a suspension, and recommended appropriate sanctions.

“Therefore, CAF’s subsequent decision should not override the referee’s authority. Football should be decided on the field, not after the final whistle. Annulling completed matches sets a dangerous precedent, where committees and not referees would overturn on-field decisions such as penalties, offsides and red cards.”

Weah warned that the CAF ruling risks undermining the credibility of African football:

“This decision further tarnishes African football, eroding confidence in its impartiality, consistency and integrity. I call on the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and other relevant authorities to act decisively and put an end to this injustice.”

Also read: Controversy over AFCON 2025 belittles it – Drogba

The former Liberian president’s statement adds to the growing international scrutiny over CAF’s handling of the AFCON final, echoing the concerns of players, coaches and fans around the world.

The controversy is now seen by many as a pivotal moment for the governance of African football, raising questions about transparency, fairness and the authority of referees vis-à-vis committees.

With Senegal appealing to CAS, the case continues to develop, keeping the focus on CAF and its decision-making processes ahead of future tournaments.