Morocco King Pardons Senegalese Fans Amid AFCON Violence

King Mohammed VI of Morocco issued a royal pardon for Senegalese football fans who were jailed following violent incidents during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final held on January 18. The pardon was announced on humanitarian grounds, coinciding with the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, which will be celebrated on Wednesday.

The royal court's statement indicated that the decision reflects the historical fraternity between Morocco and Senegal. Following the chaotic match, which Senegal lost 1-0, 18 Senegalese supporters were sentenced by a Moroccan court, with prison terms ranging from three months to one year.

Some fans were released in mid-April after completing their three-month sentences, while 15 fans remained incarcerated, facing sentences of six months to one year. Patrick Kabou, a lawyer representing many of the Senegalese fans, stated that they expect the release of the remaining fans soon.

The violence at the stadium resulted in damages estimated at €370,000.