Togo fail with appeal

Togo have failed in their efforts to have their African Cup of Nations ban lifted.

CAS uphold ban

Togo have failed in their efforts to have their African Cup of Nations ban lifted. The African Football Confederation has suspended the nation from the 2012 and 2014 tournaments following their withdrawal from this year's event. Togo pulled out of the games in Angola after their team bus came under attack, resulting in the deaths of three members of their travelling party. Their decision means they will not be included in Saturday's draw for the 2012 competition, which is set to be staged in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. African authorities took action against the country as they felt political interference had played a major role in the choice to opt out of the 2010 Cup of Nations. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) have now upheld the initial ruling, insisting 'there was no risk of irreparable harm' if Togo was excluded from the draw. CAS have, however, announced that should Togo successfully appeal the suspension there will be time for them to be included in a revised draw before qualifying starts in September.