Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has granted a royal pardon to several Senegalese supporters convicted following the chaotic scenes that marred the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco.
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has granted a royal pardon to several Senegalese supporters. PhotoCredit: RMFA
The decision, announced as part of celebrations surrounding Eid Al Adha, has been described in Morocco as a gesture of goodwill, solidarity and brotherhood between both nations following months of tension linked to the controversial final.
The supporters were among fans arrested after violent disturbances erupted during and after the AFCON final in Rabat.
Senegal supporters clash with security services after a controversial penalty was awarded to Morocco. PhotoCredit: AP/Youssef Loulidi
The match descended into chaos following a controversial late decision that triggered protests from Senegal players, officials and supporters, eventually leading to clashes with stadium security personnel and vandalism inside the stadium.
Moroccan authorities later charged several Senegalese supporters over acts linked to public disorder, destruction of stadium property and violence during the unrest.
A Moroccan court subsequently handed prison sentences and financial penalties to a number of those convicted.
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The controversy surrounding the final, however, remains far from resolved.
Following the abandonment and disciplinary fallout from the match, CAF awarded the 2025 AFCON title to Morocco national football team after ruling that Senegal national football team forfeited the game.
Senegalese players in fierce confrontation with Moroccan players at AFCON 2025
Senegal later challenged aspects of the ruling, with the wider AFCON title case still reportedly under study and investigation by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Despite the unresolved legal process, the royal pardon is being viewed as an important diplomatic and symbolic step aimed at easing tensions between supporters of both nations.
