King Mohammed VI of Morocco has called for fraternity with African nations following a surge in hate speech linked to the Africa Cup of Nations final. Rights groups reported a rise in racist rhetoric targeting sub-Saharan residents after Morocco lost 1-0 to Senegal in extra time on Sunday.
The match was marred by controversy as Senegalese players walked off the pitch protesting a penalty in stoppage time, and fans attempted to storm the field. Outraged supporters threw chairs and clashed with stewards before police intervened. Eighteen Senegalese fans were detained and charged with violence and vandalism; their request for provisional release was denied on Thursday.
After the final whistle, tensions moved to social media, where public figures on both sides were criticised for reinforcing racial stereotypes. The Moroccan Association of Human Rights condemned a “serious and worrying resurgence of hate speech and racist practices” following the match.
King Mohammed VI urged calm in a rare palace statement on Thursday, saying, “Nothing can undermine the closeness nurtured over centuries between our African peoples, nor the fruitful cooperation built with the various countries of the continent.” He emphasised that Morocco remains faithful to the spirit of fraternity, solidarity and respect towards Africa.
The incident has cast a shadow over Morocco’s hosting of the tournament and its plans to co-host the 2030 World Cup. Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko announced a forthcoming visit to Morocco and warned against social media disinformation, while the king called for unity, describing Morocco’s hosting as an “African success.”
