Senegal seeks pardon for 18 fans jailed after AFCON final

The fans were arrested in Rabat during a controversial match in which the Senegal players protested a late penalty awarded to the host nation by leaving the pitch.

The Teranga Lions supporters attempted to enter the field in response, prompting Moroccan authorities to detain them. Last Thursday, the 18 individuals were handed prison sentences ranging from three months to one year, alongside fines of up to 5,000 dirhams ($545).

"It seems this matter goes beyond the realm of sport and that is regrettable," Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko told parliament, as reported by Al-Jazeera.

"For two countries that call each other friends, like Morocco and Senegal, things should not have gone this far."

The fans have denied wrongdoing and have not appealed their sentences. Senegal has now pledged to seek a royal pardon from Morocco's King Mohammed VI.

"If they do not, we have agreements that bind us and allow us to request that the supporters serve their sentences in their own country," Sonko added.

The Senegal Football Association condemned the sentences as "incomprehensibly harsh." Bacary Cisse, president of the FSF communications committee, highlighted that stadium clashes occur globally, including in Morocco, without resulting in such severe penalties.

Defence lawyer Patrick Kabou also criticised the treatment of his clients, noting that some have gone on hunger strike and remain "victims" of the situation.

Senegal ultimately won the AFCON final 1-0 in extra time after the match resumed following the players' protest, but the focus has now shifted to securing justice and a safe return for the jailed supporters.