CAF reaffirms ban on political symbols in jerseys after Algeria-Berkane incident

On Friday, March 21, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) reiterated its strict ban on any political symbols or messages on the equipment of teams in its competitions. This follows a decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on February 26, 2025, involving the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) and USM Alger against CAF, Renaissance Sportive de Berkane, and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation.

CAS, the highest authority in sports disputes, ruled that any political imagery on jerseys violates CAF’s regulations. It reaffirmed the principle of political neutrality, which is a key rule in both CAF and FIFA’s regulations.

As a result, CAF is now required to strictly enforce this rule, making it mandatory for all federations and clubs under its authority.

From now on, any jerseys with political images, slogans, messages, or maps will be banned from official competitions. National federations and CAF bodies responsible for approving equipment are responsible for making sure teams follow this rule.

If a club or federation does not follow this rule, CAF has the right to ban the jerseys or ask for changes before allowing them to participate in its competitions.

This decision marks a stronger commitment from CAF to enforce political neutrality in African football. The organization intends to uphold this rule without exceptions.