As Eid al-Adha (Tabaski) approaches, a significant gesture has strengthened diplomatic ties between Rabat and Dakar. King Mohammed VI has granted a royal pardon to 15 Senegalese supporters who had been imprisoned following the disturbances that occurred during the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

This act of clemency, announced on Saturday, May 23, was motivated by "human considerations" and symbolizes the "centuries-old fraternal relations" that unite Morocco and Senegal, according to the statement from the royal cabinet.

A look back at the incidents of the final

The final of the 35th edition of the AFCON, played on January 18 in Rabat and won by Senegal (1-0) against the host country, ended in extreme tension.

The alleged offenses:

1. The triggering event: At the end of the match, the cancellation of a Senegalese goal followed immediately by the awarding of a penalty to Morocco provoked the anger of part of the public.
2. The disturbances: Several Senegalese supporters then invaded the pitch and threw projectiles.
3. The charges: The detainees were being prosecuted for violence against law enforcement, damage to sports equipment and trespassing — charges that their lawyers have consistently denied.

CAF sanctions: Faced with these excesses, the Confederation of African Football was quick to react by imposing heavy financial fines on the Moroccan and Senegalese federations at the end of January for unsportsmanlike conduct and breaches of fair play.

A future-oriented horizon

This release helps to ease post-competition tensions as Morocco already has its sights set on the future. Having hosted the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the kingdom is actively pursuing preparations for the completion of major sporting projects, with the co-hosting of the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal firmly in its sights.