Moroccan court adjourns appeal trial of 18 Senegal fans to April 13

The appeal hearing involving 18 supporters from Senegal accused of misconduct during the Africa Cup of Nations final has been postponed to April 13, 2026.

The case, which was due to be heard at the Rabat Court of Appeal, was adjourned following a joint request by the prosecution and the Moroccan civil party, according to judicial sources.

The supporters are facing charges linked to incidents that reportedly occurred during the final of the Africa Cup of Nations, where tensions escalated and led to disorder involving sections of the crowd. Authorities in Morocco subsequently arrested several individuals as part of efforts to restore order and investigate the disturbances.

While details surrounding the specific grounds for the adjournment remain limited, legal observers suggest the request may be tied to the need for additional time to review evidence and prepare submissions ahead of the appeal proceedings.

The postponement means the accused will have to wait longer for the next stage of the judicial process, with the April hearing expected to provide greater clarity on the direction of the case.

The matter continues to attract attention across the continent, particularly in Senegal, where there is keen interest in ensuring that the accused are granted a fair hearing. At the same time, Moroccan authorities have maintained a firm stance on upholding public order and enforcing laws governing conduct at major sporting events.

As preparations shift toward the rescheduled date, the case is likely to remain a focal point in discussions around fan behaviour and security at high-profile football tournaments in Africa.