A Moroccan court has postponed its decision in the case involving supporters arrested following violent incidents at the **2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final**, extending the uncertainty for the group of foreign nationals facing prosecution in connection with the unrest.
The Rabat Court of First Instance was set to deliver a verdict on supporters, 17 Senegalese nationals and one Algerian, who were arrested after clashes and disorder at the January 18 final between Senegal and Morocco. However, the hearing scheduled for early February was adjourned to February 12, 2026, as court proceedings were disrupted by a strike by Moroccan lawyers, judicial officials confirmed.
The defendants, held in pre-trial detention, are accused of a range of offences related to crowd disturbances, including alleged acts of violence against law enforcement, **damage to property, and other breaches under Morocco’s penal code tied to public disorder at sporting events. Moroccan judicial authorities referred the case for prosecution following their initial detention and questioning by local police.
The legal proceedings stem from incidents during and after the final of the 2025 AFCON, which saw Senegal crowned champions amid chaotic scenes that included pitch invasions, object-throwing and confrontations between some supporters and security personnel. The match itself was marked by on-field controversy and a delayed finish before Senegal secured a 1-0 victory in extra time.
The postponement underscores the complexities facing Moroccan courts as they navigate high-profile cases linked to sporting violence. Authorities have yet to announce whether the charges against the supporters will be altered or if additional security measures will be implemented ahead of the next scheduled hearing.
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