Moroccan King Orders Release Of Jailed Senegalese Fans After AFCON Final Violence

morocco’s King Mohammed VI has ordered the release of Senegalese football supporters imprisoned over violence during the controversial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, granting them a royal pardon ahead of the Eid al-Adha celebrations.

The announcement was made on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in a statement issued by the Royal Cabinet, which said the pardon was extended on “humanitarian grounds” and in recognition of the “long-standing fraternal ties” between Morocco and Senegal.

The supporters were arrested following chaotic scenes at Rabat’s Moulay Abdellah Stadium during the AFCON final in January, when tensions erupted after Morocco was awarded a late penalty.

 

Senegalese players reportedly walked off the pitch in protest, while some supporters attempted to invade the field, forcing a lengthy interruption of the game.

 

Although Senegal secured a dramatic 1-0 victory after Morocco missed the penalty, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) later overturned the result and awarded Morocco a 3-0 win, declaring the North African country champions of the tournament.

The decision sparked outrage in Senegal, with authorities filing an appeal before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), where the matter is still pending.