Moroccan authorities have arrested 17 people, including five minors, in connection with violent riots that broke out following Saturday’s fiercely contested clásico between Wydad Casablanca and FAR Rabat at Mohammed V Stadium.
The match, a key fixture in the Moroccan league, saw Wydad clinch a 2-1 victory, narrowing the gap to just three points behind second-placed FAR Rabat with two matches remaining in the season.
However, the post-match atmosphere turned chaotic as clashes erupted between rival fans and security forces. Authorities said more than 700 minors were present around the stadium during the unrest, though the majority were later released without charge.
Police have launched a full investigation into the disturbances and are working to identify those responsible. Law enforcement units remained active overnight, tracking suspects and evaluating property damage.
To prevent further escalation, security teams accompanied FAR Rabat fans to the train station to ensure their safe return to Rabat.
Officials partly blamed the violence on a rare security oversight: both sets of supporters were allowed to leave the stadium at the same time, breaking with the usual protocol of holding the home fans back to avoid confrontations.
The incident adds to growing concerns over hooliganism in Moroccan football. In response, authorities have been ramping up efforts to enhance safety at high-risk matches, including deploying more police, installing surveillance cameras, and enforcing strict anti-violence regulations.
