By Angu Lesley
King Mohammed VI has granted a royal pardon to several Senegalese supporters who had been convicted following incidents during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, in what has been described as a humanitarian and diplomatic gesture ahead of Eid Al Adha.
The decision was announced by the Moroccan royal court on Saturday, with authorities stating that the pardon was granted “on humanitarian grounds” and in recognition of the “age-old fraternal ties” between Morocco and Senegal.
How The Story Began
The controversy dates back to the dramatic AFCON 2025 final in Rabat between hosts Morocco and Senegal. The match descended into chaos after a late penalty decision sparked protests, pitch invasions and crowd disturbances involving sections of supporters. Senegal eventually defeated Morocco 1-0 in a tense and highly charged final.
Following the incidents, Moroccan authorities arrested 18 Senegalese supporters accused of hooliganism, vandalism and involvement in violent disturbances around the stadium. Several fans received prison sentences ranging from three months to one year, while fines were also imposed by Moroccan courts.
The arrests quickly became a major topic in Senegal, with politicians, football officials and supporters calling for clemency. Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko publicly criticised the sentencing, arguing that the situation had gone “beyond the realm of sport.”
Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye later revealed that he had personally written to King Mohammed VI, congratulating Morocco for hosting the tournament while also requesting forgiveness for the detained supporters. According to Faye, diplomatic channels, legal appeals and even religious mediation efforts had all been explored in attempts to secure the release of the fans.
Symbol Of Diplomatic Unity
The royal pardon is now being viewed as a major act of reconciliation between two of Africa’s closest allies. Morocco and Senegal have historically maintained strong political, economic and cultural ties, with both countries frequently describing their relationship as one of “brotherhood” and strategic cooperation.
The timing of the pardon ahead of Eid Al Adha has also added symbolic weight to the announcement, with many across Africa praising the move as an example of unity and diplomacy through sport.
The development is expected to ease tensions that followed the chaotic AFCON final and could help restore a more positive atmosphere between supporters of both nations moving forward.
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