Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has granted a royal pardon to Senegalese football supporters imprisoned following violence during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Rabat.
According to a statement issued by the royal court on Saturday, the decision was taken on humanitarian grounds in recognition of the longstanding relationship between Morocco and Senegal and in celebration of the upcoming Eid al-Adha festivities.
The statement said the pardon reflected the “age-old fraternal ties” shared by both countries.
The supporters were arrested after disturbances broke out during the AFCON final on January 18. The match, which Senegal initially won 1-0, descended into chaos after Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty shortly after a Senegal goal had been ruled out.
The incident triggered unrest among some Senegalese supporters, with reports of attempts to invade the pitch and objects being thrown during the match.
In February, Moroccan courts sentenced 18 Senegalese supporters to prison terms ranging from three months to one year over their involvement in the violence.
Three supporters were released in April after completing their sentences, while 15 others remained in custody after receiving longer prison terms. The royal pardon is expected to cover the remaining detainees.
Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye welcomed the decision, expressing appreciation to the Moroccan monarch for what he described as an act of humanity and compassion.
“Our compatriots detained in Morocco following the incidents that occurred on the sidelines of the Africa Cup of Nations are free. They will soon be reunited with their loved ones,” Faye said.
The incidents during the final also attracted sanctions from the Confederation of African Football, which penalised both football federations over violations related to conduct and fair play.
The development comes amid continued legal proceedings over the outcome of the tournament, with Senegal having appealed CAF’s administrative decision regarding the competition to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
