Algeria-Morocco Soccer Dispute Over Western Sahara Jersey Reaches CAS

A bitter dispute between Algeria and Morocco over a map of the disputed Western Sahara territory featured on a soccer jersey has escalated to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The Algerian soccer federation and USM Alger club are challenging a decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to allow Moroccan club RS Berkane to wear the controversial jersey.

Why this matters: This dispute highlights the deep-seated political tensions between Algeria and Morocco, which have been simmering for decades, and demonstrates how sports can become entangled in geopolitical conflicts. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the relationship between the two nations and the broader region.

The dispute has already impacted the CAF Confederation Cup semi-finals, with both legs between USM Alger and RS Berkanecancelled. On April 21, Algerian authorities seized the Berkane team's uniforms upon arrival in Algiers because of the political implications of the jersey's map. Berkane refused to wear replacement shirts, resulting in the match's cancellation and a 3-0 default win awarded to the Moroccan side by CAF.

The second leg, scheduled for April 28, met a similar fate as USM Alger declined to face Berkane if they wore the disputed jersey. CAF again ruled in favor of Berkane, granting them another 3-0 victory and a spot in the Confederation Cup final against Egypt's Zamalek, set for May 12 and 19.

In response, the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) and USM Alger have filed an appeal with CAS, arguing that the map on the Berkane jersey constitutes a political statement that violates CAF and FIFA regulations. The appeal seeks to annul CAF's decisions and rule that the jersey "contravenes the laws of the game, CAF regulations, and FIFA rules."

CAS has confirmed receipt of the appeal and the appointment of an arbitral panel to hear the case. The involved parties, including CAF, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), and RS Berkane, are currently exchanging written submissions. The panel will then issue instructions for the next phase of the proceedings, which may include a hearing.

The controversy is set against the backdrop of long-standing tensions between Algeria and Morocco, primarily stemming from the unresolved status of Western Sahara. The territory, a former Spanish colony, was annexed by Morocco in 1975, leading to a decades-long conflict with the Algerian-backed Polisario Front, which seeks independence for the region.

The soccer jersey dispute has further strained relations between the two North African nations, which have been at odds since Algeria gained independence from France in 1962. In August 2021, Algeria severed diplomatic ties with Morocco, accusing its neighbor of hostile actions and supporting separatist groups.

Legal proceedings unfolding, the soccer world awaits CAS's decision on the matter. The outcome could have significant implications not only for the CAF Confederation Cup final but also for the broader geopolitical tensions between Algeria and Morocco. The case serves as a jarring illustration of how deeply entrenched political disputes can spill over into the domain of sports, creating new arenas for long-standing conflicts to play out.

Key Takeaways

• Algeria and Morocco's soccer jersey dispute over Western Sahara map reaches CAS.
• CAF allowed Moroccan club RS Berkane to wear the jersey, sparking Algerian protest.
• Two CAF Confederation Cup semi-final matches cancelled due to jersey dispute.
• Algerian Football Federation and USM Alger appeal to CAS, citing political statement.
• CAS to rule on jersey dispute, with implications for Algeria-Morocco relations.