The Senegalese Football Federation has publicly denounced a Moroccan court's verdict that imposed prison sentences on 18 Senegalese fans involved in disturbances during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final match on January 18. The court's sentences ranged from three to 12 months, which the federation has labeled as excessively harsh, provoking a strong reaction. Bacary Cisse, president of the federation’s communications committee, expressed profound dismay regarding the ruling, highlighting the distress it has caused both to the federation and the broader Senegalese community.

On the day of the match, which saw Senegal claim victory over Morocco, tensions escalated as some Senegalese supporters attempted to enter the pitch, resulting in their detention. The 18 fans had been in pre-trial custody since January 18, a situation that has drawn significant outrage from various stakeholders. Cisse's comments reflect a broader sentiment within Senegal, where the ruling is seen not only as punitive but also as a diplomatic slight, given the context of national pride associated with the victory and the regional camaraderie often emphasized in sports.

This ruling and the reaction from Senegal raise important questions regarding the treatment of fans and the implications for international sporting events in the region. Such incidents have the potential to strain diplomatic relationships, particularly between neighboring countries like Senegal and Morocco, and could impact future collaborations in sports. The Senegalese federation's strong stance indicates a commitment to defending its fans' rights and calling for fair treatment, setting the stage for potential diplomatic discussions between the two countries regarding such matters in the future.