The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has denounced the sentencing of 18 Senegalese football fans in Morocco on charges of hooliganism during last month’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, calling the verdict “incomprehensibly harsh.”
Background to the Case
The fans were sentenced on Thursday, February 19, 2026, to prison terms ranging from three to twelve months. They had been in pre-trial detention since January 18, the day of the heated AFCON final in which Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 on home turf.
Towards the end of the match, some Senegalese supporters attempted a pitch invasion, while Senegal’s players halted the game for nearly 20 minutes to protest a late penalty awarded to Morocco. Other fans were seen throwing objects, including a chair, onto the field.
Charges and Sentences
The defendants were prosecuted in Rabat for hooliganism-related offenses, including:
- Acts of violence against law enforcement
- Damage to sports equipment
- Pitch invasion
- Throwing projectiles
Nine supporters received one-year prison terms and fines of 5,000 dirhams ($545). Six others were sentenced to six months with fines of 2,000 dirhams, while three received three-month terms and fines of 1,000 dirhams.
Federation’s Response
FSF communications committee president Bacary Cisse expressed outrage at the ruling:
“We express our profound dismay and distress following the verdict. This incomprehensibly harsh decision has provoked widespread outrage.”
Cisse argued that clashes occur in stadiums worldwide, including in Morocco, without resulting in such severe sanctions, calling the treatment of the Senegalese supporters “disproportionate.”
Defence Position
Defence lawyer Patrick Kabou described the verdict as “incomprehensible,” insisting that his clients were victims rather than perpetrators.
Conclusion
The sentencing has sparked diplomatic and sporting tensions between Senegal and Morocco, raising questions about proportionality in handling football-related incidents. As outrage grows, the case underscores broader debates about fan conduct, justice, and fairness in international sporting events.
