Senegalese fans pardoned by Morocco’s king return home after can final

Fifteen Senegalese supporters, previously jailed following disturbances at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat, have been granted clemency and returned to Dakar on Sunday morning. The royal pardon, announced by King Mohammed VI on Saturday, came ahead of Aïd al-Adha, underscoring Morocco’s commitment to strengthening ties with Senegal.

The Senegalese president, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, personally welcomed the supporters at Blaise Diagne International Airport in Diamniadio, near Dakar. Addressing the press in athletic attire, he expressed his joy at their safe return, reiterating that the Lions of Teranga are “African champions for the second time”, despite an ongoing title dispute at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

a gesture rooted in shared history

In a communiqué, the royal cabinet highlighted the “centuries-old fraternal relations between Morocco and Senegal”, framing the pardon as a humanitarian gesture. President Faye also thanked Moroccan authorities for their decision, made in the spirit of Tabaski, a major Islamic festival.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) president, Patrice Motsepe, praised the king’s decision, calling it a “powerful reminder of football’s ability to unite and inspire across Africa and beyond.”

from prison to freedom

The supporters were among 18 initially convicted in February for hooliganism and violence against law enforcement during the chaotic final on January 18. Eighteen months after Senegal’s 1-0 victory over Morocco, tensions flared when a late penalty call sparked outrage, with Senegalese players leaving the pitch and fans storming the field.

By mid-April, three individuals had already completed their three-month sentences and were released. The remaining 15 received full pardons on Saturday, allowing them to reunite with their families in time for the holidays.