February 3, 2026
By SUNTV Global Channel
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has announced plans to formally appeal the sanctions imposed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following the chaotic Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final against Senegal.
The dramatic final, played on January 18, 2026, was marred by controversy after Senegalese players and members of the technical crew walked off the pitch, while sections of their supporters attempted to invade the field, triggering disorder inside the stadium.
In a statement released on Tuesday, February 3, the FRMF described CAF’s disciplinary measures as “disproportionately lenient”, insisting they fail to reflect the gravity of the events that disrupted African football’s biggest match.
According to the Moroccan federation, the incident spiralled into clashes, property damage and security interventions, following the mass withdrawal of Senegal’s team and staff.
“After reviewing the rulings issued by CAF’s Disciplinary Committee concerning the events that occurred during the AFCON final, which witnessed the withdrawal of Senegalese players and technical staff, the invasion of the pitch by supporters, and the resulting chaos and riots, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation considers the sanctions imposed to be inconsistent with the seriousness of these acts,” the statement read.
The FRMF confirmed that its president had already communicated its objections directly to CAF leadership and, in line with its legal rights, the federation would ensure the rulings are challenged through the appropriate channels.
CAF’s Disciplinary Board had sanctioned both Morocco and Senegal, along with several players and officials.
Senegal head coach Pape Bouna Thiaw was suspended for five CAF matches and fined $100,000 for unsporting conduct and bringing the game into disrepute. Players Ismaïla Sarr and Iliman Cheikh Baroy Ndiaye each received two-match suspensions for unsporting behaviour towards match officials.
The Fédération Sénégalaise de Football (FSF) was fined a total of $615,000 for misconduct involving supporters, players, and technical staff.
Morocco also faced sanctions. Achraf Hakimi was handed a two-match suspension, with one match suspended for one year, while Ismaël Saibari received a three-match ban and a $100,000 fine. The FRMF itself was fined $315,000 over incidents involving ball boys, team officials, and the use of laser pointers by supporters.
The Moroccan federation also lodged a protest citing alleged violations of Articles 82 and 84 of AFCON regulations by Senegal, but CAF dismissed the complaint.
Expressing disappointment, the FRMF said CAF’s decisions failed to adequately address the unprecedented nature of the Senegalese team’s withdrawal and the pitch invasion that followed.
Senegal, however, has accepted the rulings.
In a separate statement, the FSF confirmed it would not appeal the sporting or financial sanctions imposed on the federation, its coach, or players.
“In accordance with Article 91.4 of the CAF Disciplinary Code, the Senegalese Football Federation assumes full financial responsibility for all fines imposed,” the FSF said, reaffirming its commitment to CAF regulations and the integrity of African football.
