RismadarVoice Reporters, May 24, 2026
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has granted a royal pardon to Senegalese football supporters imprisoned following violence during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat.
According to a statement from the royal court, the pardon was issued on humanitarian grounds and in recognition of the longstanding relationship between Morocco and Senegal, as well as the upcoming Eid al-Adha celebration.
The move is expected to affect 15 Senegalese supporters who remained in detention after being sentenced to prison terms ranging from six months to one year.
A total of 18 Senegalese fans were originally jailed after disturbances that followed a controversial incident during the AFCON final. Three supporters had earlier completed shorter three-month prison terms and were released in April.
The unrest began after Morocco was awarded a late penalty during the match, triggering a pitch invasion and protests that temporarily halted play. Senegal eventually secured a 1–0 victory before the Confederation of African Football (CAF) later overturned the result and awarded Morocco a 3–0 win, ruling that Senegal breached tournament regulations by leaving the field.
Senegal has since appealed the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with a final ruling expected at a later date.
Lawyers representing several of the supporters said those affected by the royal pardon were expected to regain their freedom shortly.
