The Algerian regime has exploited a TAS ruling to support its claims against Morocco. Algeria attempted to annul RS Berkane’s victory in a football match and faced repercussions for boycotting games. The TAS confirmed compliance of Moroccan teams with regulations, underscoring Morocco’s sovereignty in the ongoing Western Sahara dispute.
The Algerian government, alongside its media outlets, has exploited a recent ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS) to propagate misleading narratives that support its long-standing opposition to Moroccan territorial integrity. In light of Algeria’s unsuccessful attempts to reverse Moroccan club RS Berkane’s victory over USM Alger, the government has resorted to tactics questioning the TAS ruling, suggesting it is influenced by geopolitical dynamics unrelated to the sport itself.
Initially, Algeria tried to nullify RS Berkane’s victory in the CAF Confederation Cup, resulting in an incident where Moroccan players faced humiliation at the Houari Boumediene International Airport due to their jerseys featuring a map of Morocco. Displaying the complete map is prohibited in Algeria, as the regime supports the Polisario Front, a separatist group vying for independence in the Western Sahara region.
The match in Morocco was ultimately canceled after Algeria boycotted it, prompting CAF to declare RS Berkane the winner of both legs. The TAS ruling reaffirmed that RS Berkane and Morocco’s Football Federation (FRMF) complied with all regulations, as the decision rested on the principle of res judicata, which indicates that such decisions are final and binding.
The politicization of sport by Algeria highlights its increasing reliance on these tactics following numerous diplomatic defeats regarding the Western Sahara dispute. Despite its claims, the international community predominantly supports Morocco’s position, reinforcing the notion that Algeria’s actions are a reflection of desperation. As Morocco’s legitimacy grows internationally, Algeria’s attempts to reframe sporting victories will likely continue to fall short of influencing perceptions concerning sovereignty in the Western Sahara region.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
