AFCON 2025: Senegal Football Federation slams Morocco’s ‘incomprehensibly harsh’ ruling against fans

The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has slammed a Moroccan court ruling that sentenced 18 Senegalese fans to prison following disturbances at the AFCON 2025 final in Rabat.

Describing the decision as “incomprehensibly harsh” and disproportionate, the FSF expressed deep concern over the outcome.

The sentences, issued by a Rabat court on February 19, stemmed from hooliganism charges against supporters detained since the January 18 final, in which Senegal defeated host Morocco 1-0 in extra time to lift the trophy.

The court found the fans guilty of offenses including violence against law enforcement, damaging sports facilities, pitch invasion, and throwing objects. Nine supporters received one-year prison terms and fines of roughly $545 each; six were sentenced to six months with fines around $218; and three were handed three-month sentences and $109 fines.

Bacary Cissé, president of the FSF’s communications committee, told AFP: “We express our profound dismay and distress following the verdict. The penalties are harsh, disproportionate, and have sparked outrage across Senegalese football circles.” He added, “Clashes occur in stadiums worldwide, including every weekend in Morocco, without resulting in such severe sanctions.”

The ruling comes amid lingering tensions from the final, during which Senegalese players temporarily halted the match in protest of a penalty awarded to Morocco. Emotions ran high, and some supporters attempted to storm the pitch and threw objects onto the field.

Patrick Kabou, the fans’ defense lawyer, also condemned the sentences, calling them “incomprehensible” and asserting that his clients were unfairly targeted in the legal process.

The FSF said it will continue monitoring developments closely, with discussions underway about potential appeals and diplomatic measures to address what it views as an injustice toward Senegalese supporters.