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The sentencing of 18 Senegalese fans and one French-Algerian national to prison terms ranging from three months to one year, along with fines, following disturbances at the AFCON final in Morocco has triggered strong reactions on Senegalese social media. Many users called the sentences «heavy» and «disproportionate».
Rabat: heavy sentences for the 18 Senegalese supporters (3 months to 1 year in prison)
— Mamadou NDIAYE (@ndiaye15mamadou) February 19, 2026
The Rabat Court of First Instance sentenced the 18 Senegalese supporters this Thursday to prison terms of 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year for assault… pic.twitter.com/jJMVWAguoJ
But past cases suggest the ruling is in line with how Moroccan courts usually deal with football-related violence. Similar, and sometimes tougher, sentences have been handed down to Moroccan fans in recent years.
In 2013, after clashes in Casablanca during a match between Raja and AS FAR, more than 130 people were prosecuted. Thirty received prison terms of two to three years for public disorder and property damage, while others were given suspended sentences.
In April 2022, eight fans were jailed for between four months and one year following violence after a match between AS FAR and Maghreb de Fès in Rabat.
More recently, in 2024, 28 supporters arrested after unrest linked to a Kawkab match in Marrakech were sentenced to between two months and one year in prison on charges including assault, incitement to violence, and property damage.
A tough stance on stadium violence
In the case of the Senegalese fans, the charges, assault, throwing objects, damaging property, and causing disorder, mirror those brought against Moroccan supporters in similar cases.
The sentences fall within the usual range imposed by Moroccan courts for this type of offense. In some previous incidents, the punishments were even harsher.
Since the introduction of Law 09-09 on violence at sporting events, Moroccan authorities have taken a tough line on unrest in and around stadiums. That policy applies regardless of whether those involved are Moroccan or foreign nationals.
