Morocco's King Mohammed VI has granted an official pardon to 18 Senegalese soccer fans who were imprisoned for hooliganism related to the chaotic Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, the Royal Cabinet announced on Saturday.
Background of the Incident
The Senegalese supporters were sentenced in February to prison terms of up to one year on charges including damaging sporting facilities and committing violence during a sporting event. Some individuals had already completed their sentences before the pardon was issued.
Royal Pardon Details
“Given the long-standing fraternal ties between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Senegal, and on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, King Mohammed VI has graciously granted, for humanitarian reasons, his royal pardon to Senegalese supporters convicted of offenses committed during Africa Cup of Nations competitions,” the Royal Cabinet said in a statement.
Events During the Final
During the tournament's final match in January, Senegalese fans attempted to storm the pitch, and Senegalese players walked off in protest over a late penalty awarded to host Morocco. Senegal ultimately won the game 1-0 and initially lifted the trophy, but in an unprecedented turn of events, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) stripped Senegal of the title and declared Morocco the champion. Senegal later announced it had appealed the decision.
Diplomatic Reactions
The final and its aftermath prompted senior officials from both nations to call for calm amid a surge in what rights groups in Morocco described as “hate speech targeting sub-Saharan residents.” The leaders of Morocco and Senegal pledged to maintain friendly ties and signed dozens of agreements aimed at boosting trade and investment.
