In a significant act of clemency, Sa Majesté le Roi Mohammed VI granted a royal pardon to sixteen Senegalese supporters who had been detained in Morocco. The supporters were held following incidents that occurred during the final of the Coupe d’Afrique des Nations (CAN 2025). This decision to pardon the individuals, which shows a commitment to humanitarian principles, was officially announced on Saturday, May 24, 2026, by the Royal Cabinet, bringing a resolution to their incarceration.
Supporters Freed After Incidents
The incidents leading to the arrests and subsequent detentions took place on January 18, 2025, in Rabat, during the final match of the Coupe d’Afrique des Nations (CAN 2025). These events resulted in legal proceedings against several individuals. Following these unfortunate occurrences, sixteen Senegalese nationals were condemned to prison sentences, which ranged from three months to one year, reflecting the gravity of the charges brought against them. These individuals were among a larger group of supporters involved in the incidents that marred the conclusion of the prestigious football tournament. Of the eighteen supporters initially incarcerated following the events in Rabat, two had already completed their respective sentences and subsequently returned to Senegal prior to the issuance of the royal pardon. The pardon specifically addressed the remaining sixteen individuals who were still serving their terms in Morocco, allowing for their immediate release and repatriation.
Diplomatic Gesture of Clemency
The pardon for the sixteen Senegalese supporters was granted by Sa Majesté le Roi Mohammed VI on the occasion of the sacred celebration of Eid al-Adha, a time traditionally associated with forgiveness and compassion in the Islamic world. This timing further amplified the significance of the gesture. This decision is widely regarded as a gesture of clemency and high benevolence, which observers suggest illustrates the broader scope of Moroccan humanitarian diplomacy. Such acts of royal clemency are often seen as reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to fostering positive international relations through compassionate actions.
The measure of appeasement also reflects the excellence of the secular and multidimensional fraternal relations that exist between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Senegal. This diplomatic move shows the ongoing strong ties between the two nations, providing a resolution to the situation involving the detained supporters and reinforcing the long-standing bond between the two African countries. This act of good faith is expected to further strengthen the already strong bilateral relationship.
Welcome Home and International Thanks
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye personally welcomed fifteen of the freed Senegalese compatriots at Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD) in Dakar, the capital of Senegal, around 1 AM on May 24, 2026. The personal presence of the head of state at the airport noted the national importance and relief associated with their return. Upon their arrival, President Faye stated, "Nos compatriotes retenus au Maroc à la suite des incidents survenus en marge de la CAN sont libres. Nous saluons ce geste de haute portée du Royaume chérifien." His remarks acknowledged the significance of the royal pardon granted by Sa Majesté le Roi Mohammed VI, expressing gratitude for the monarch's decision. The President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) also expressed gratitude to King Mohammed VI for the royal pardon, recognizing the diplomatic gesture that facilitated the release of the supporters. This expression of thanks from CAF showed the broader international appreciation for the Moroccan monarch's decision and its positive impact on the football community.
