King Mohammed VI of Morocco has pardoned Senegal soccer supporters convicted of hooliganism during the Africa Cup of Nations final hosted by Morocco. The royal palace stated the pardon was granted for human considerations ahead of Eid Al Adha celebrations and in view of the long-standing fraternal relationship between the two nations.
Eighteen Senegal fans were sentenced in April to prison terms ranging from three months to a year. Their charges included violence against security forces, throwing objects, damaging stadium infrastructure, and attempting to invade the pitch after VAR awarded a penalty to Morocco. Some supporters had already been released after serving their sentences.
The incidents occurred during the final in January when Senegal walked off the pitch in protest but returned after 14 minutes. Although Morocco missed the penalty, Senegal won the match 1-0.
In March, Morocco was declared the Africa Cup of Nations champion and Senegal was stripped of the title after the Confederation of African Football upheld an appeal by Morocco. Senegal has since appealed that decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.