Morocco Appeals Court Upholds Sentences for 18 Senegalese Fans

A Moroccan appeals court has upheld prison sentences for 18 Senegalese football fans convicted in connection with a pitch invasion during the Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat on January 18, 2025. The Rabat Court of Appeal confirmed the original rulings from February, imposing one-year terms on nine of the defendants and sentences ranging from three to six months on the others, along with fines between 90 and 460 euros. The fans, who have remained in custody since their arrest, were charged with hooliganism, violence against police, damage to sports equipment, and pitch invasion.

The incident occurred at the end of the match between Senegal and host nation Morocco at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, which Senegal initially won 1-0. Chaos erupted amid crowd surges and projectiles thrown from the stands, prompting some supporters to enter the pitch. Prosecutors argued the fans participated in disorderly acts, including throwing objects, and sought harsher penalties during the appeal. However, the court maintained the initial sentences, rejecting calls for increased terms.

The defendants consistently denied the charges, maintaining they sought refuge on the field to escape...