Supporters Welcome Home After Royal Pardon
In a significant diplomatic gesture, fifteen Senegalese supporters, who had been imprisoned in Morocco following disturbances during the CAN 2025 final, have returned home. Their release was made possible by a royal pardon from King Mohammed VI of Morocco, granted on humanitarian grounds. This royal decree coincided with the upcoming celebration of Eid al-Adha, reinforcing the long-standing fraternal ties between Morocco and Senegal.
Upon their arrival at Blaise Diagne International Airport in Dakar, the supporters were warmly welcomed by Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and officials from the Senegalese Football Federation. The president expressed his joy at their safe return and emphasized Senegal's victory in the African Cup, underscoring the nation’s pride in its football achievements despite ongoing disputes regarding the championship title.
Background of the Incident and Its Aftermath
The disturbances occurred during the final match held on January 18, 2026, in Rabat, where Senegal faced Morocco. Tensions escalated after a controversial penalty was awarded to Morocco, leading to chaotic scenes as Senegalese players left the pitch and fans attempted to invade the field. Consequently, Moroccan authorities arrested several individuals, resulting in sentences ranging from three months to one year for those charged with hooliganism.
This incident strained the diplomatic relations between Senegal and Morocco, two nations with a history of cooperation and friendship across various sectors, including tourism and energy. In a move to mend ties, the royal pardon for the supporters signifies a step towards reconciliation, as highlighted in the official statement from the Moroccan royal cabinet. The statement emphasized the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation that unite the two countries.
President Faye's gratitude towards the Moroccan authorities for their leniency during this sensitive period reflects the importance of inter-African solidarity and the potential of sports to unite people. The African Football Confederation has also acknowledged this development as a positive indication of the power of football to foster unity across the continent.
As reported by trtfrancais.com.
