The supporters, who had been sentenced to between three months and one year in prison for hooliganism and violence against authorities, were granted royal clemency on Saturday. The pardon was announced in a statement from the royal cabinet, citing “humanitarian considerations” and the long-standing fraternal ties between Morocco and Senegal.

The statement noted that the decision was made “on the occasion of the Eid al-Adha celebrations,” which were approaching in Morocco. King Mohammed VI’s gesture was widely celebrated as a symbol of solidarity between the two nations.

A warm welcome in Dakar

The supporters landed in the early hours at Blaise Diagne International Airport near Dakar, where they were greeted by Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and officials from the Senegalese Football Federation. Addressing the crowd, President Faye expressed his joy at their safe return, donning athletic wear as he reaffirmed the Lions of Teranga’s status as “two-time African champions,” despite the ongoing legal dispute over the title at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

President Faye also extended gratitude to Moroccan authorities for the clemency, made possible during the upcoming Eid al-Adha festivities. Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), praised the king’s decision, calling it an “inspiring example of how football can unite and bring African peoples together,” both on the continent and worldwide.

Violence and legal consequences

The turmoil began on January 18 during the tense AFCON final between Senegal and Morocco. A controversial penalty awarded to Morocco in stoppage time—shortly after a disallowed Senegalese goal—sparked outrage among Senegalese players and fans. Supporters rushed onto the pitch, hurling objects, while players from both teams abandoned the match. The incident led to condemnation rulings against eighteen Senegalese nationals for hooliganism and assault on law enforcement, with sentences ranging from three months to a year in prison.

By mid-April, three supporters had already completed their three-month sentences and been released. Saturday’s pardon covered the remaining fifteen individuals, allowing them to reunite with their families ahead of Eid al-Adha.