Morocco's Royal Pardon for Senegalese Fans Following CAN Disturbances
In a significant gesture of goodwill, King Mohammed VI of Morocco has granted a royal pardon to Senegalese supporters who were detained following disturbances during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final. This decision, announced by the royal cabinet, comes after a Moroccan court sentenced eighteen Senegalese nationals to prison terms ranging from three months to one year for their involvement in the riots that erupted during the championship match held in Rabat.
The verdict, delivered on February 20, 2026, found these individuals guilty of participating in riots and violent acts, which included assaulting law enforcement officers, damaging sporting equipment, invading the pitch, and throwing projectiles. The royal pardon was issued in recognition of the historic bonds of friendship that exist between Morocco and Senegal, and it was also timed to coincide with the celebration of Eid al-Adha.
The events that led to the arrests unfolded on January 18, 2026, during the final match, where Senegal faced Morocco. The match was marred by controversy when a last-minute penalty awarded to Morocco incited protests among Senegalese players, who threatened to withdraw from the game. This tension soon spilled over into the stands, where numerous Senegalese fans attempted to storm the field, causing a delay of nearly 15 minutes. It was only after the intervention of captain Sadio Mané that the players returned to the field. Following a missed penalty by Brahim Diaz, Pape Gueye scored a decisive goal in extra time, securing a 1-0 victory for Senegal and the continental title.
However, following the match, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation lodged a complaint with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), claiming that the Senegalese players had breached regulations by leaving the pitch without the referee's consent. On March 17, 2026, the CAF annulled Senegal's victory, awarding a 3-0 win to Morocco, thus stripping Senegal of the championship title. In response, the Senegalese Football Federation appealed this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, asserting their right to retain the trophy. The case is still under review, and a final decision has yet to be announced.
As reported by aa.com.tr.
