morocco\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
The announcement was made on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in a statement issued by the Royal Cabinet, which said the pardon was extended on \u201chumanitarian grounds\u201d and in recognition of the \u201clong-standing fraternal ties\u201d between Morocco and Senegal.<\/p>\n
The supporters were arrested following chaotic scenes at Rabat\u2019s Moulay Abdellah Stadium during the AFCON final in January, when tensions erupted after Morocco was awarded a late penalty.<\/p>\n
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Senegalese players reportedly walked off the pitch in protest, while some supporters attempted to invade the field, forcing a lengthy interruption of the game.<\/p>\n
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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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n