By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI on Saturday, May 24, 2026, pardoned Senegalese football supporters in Morocco after the 2025 AFCON final violence in Rabat. He issued the decision in Morocco, citing humanitarian reasons, Eid al-Adha, and strong Senegal–Morocco ties. The royal pardon followed a court ruling process and led to expected release of detained fans.
Royal Pardon Announced by King Mohammed VI
King Mohammed VI granted clemency to Senegalese supporters through a royal court statement.
Authorities said humanitarian grounds influenced the decision.
Officials also linked it to Eid al-Adha celebrations in Morocco.
The pardon followed strong diplomatic ties between both nations.
Background of AFCON 2025 Final Incident
Senegal and Morocco clashed during the AFCON 2025 final in Rabat.
Senegal initially won the match 1–0 in a chaotic encounter.
Officials later awarded the title to Morocco after an appeal.
Tensions rose after a late penalty decision for Morocco.
A disallowed Senegal goal further escalated fan anger.
Some supporters attempted to storm the pitch.
Others threw objects toward security personnel.
Violence, Arrests, and Court Sentences
Moroccan authorities arrested 18 Senegalese supporters after the incident.
Courts relied on stadium camera footage and injury reports.
Medical certificates confirmed injuries to police and stadium stewards.
Judges sentenced the group in February.
Sentences ranged from three months to one year in prison.
Three supporters gained release after serving short terms in April.
Fifteen remained in custody before the royal pardon.
Officials estimated property damage above €370,000.
The figure equals about $430,000.
CAF Sanctions and Competition Fallout
The Confederation of African Football sanctioned both federations in January.
CAF cited unsporting behavior and fair play violations.
On March 17, CAF awarded Morocco the AFCON title by administrative ruling.
Senegal later appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Senegal–Morocco Diplomatic Relations
Senegal and Morocco maintain strong political and cultural ties.
Both countries cooperate in tourism and energy sectors.
Senegalese citizens form the largest foreign community in Morocco.
Religious and historical links also strengthen their relationship.
Reaction from Senegalese Leadership
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye welcomed the royal pardon.
He confirmed the release of detained citizens on social media platform X.
He said the supporters would reunite with their families soon.
Lawyer Patrick Kabou also confirmed expected releases.
He represented several of the detained supporters.
Conclusion
The royal pardon ends months of legal and diplomatic tension.
It also highlights growing cooperation between Morocco and Senegal.
Both nations now shift focus back to regional sports unity.
