The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has formally announced its intention to appeal the $715,000 fines and disciplinary measures imposed on Senegal following the chaotic Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) final in January 2026, arguing that the Confederation of African Football’s (Caf) sanctions are disproportionate to the gravity of the incidents.
The FRMF’s statement comes after Caf’s Disciplinary Board issued a series of fines and suspensions targeting both Senegal and Morocco over the disorder that marred the final in Rabat, which saw Senegal defeat hosts Morocco 1-0 after extra time.
“Having reviewed the rulings issued by CAF, we consider the sanctions imposed on Senegal are not commensurate with the seriousness of the events,” said the FRMF in an official press release.
“In the interest of upholding all rights guaranteed by law and ensuring justice is served, we have decided to appeal the decisions.”
The final was marred by a controversial penalty awarded to Morocco in the 98th minute of added time following a VAR review.
Senegal head coach Pape Bouna Thiaw led his players off the pitch in protest, prompting a temporary match suspension of over ten minutes.
Meanwhile, Senegalese fans clashed with security after attempting to invade the pitch. Play resumed only after Senegal captain Sadio Mane intervened, and Morocco’s Brahim Diaz later missed the penalty. Senegal eventually scored in extra time through Pape Gueye to clinch their second AFCON title.
Caf subsequently fined Senegal $615,000, including $300,000 for supporter misconduct and another $300,000 for players and staff behavior, while Senegal coach Thiaw received a five-match suspension and a $100,000 fine.
Individual players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaïla Sarr were also suspended for two matches each.
Morocco itself faced Caf sanctions, including fines for ball boys, the misuse of VAR review areas by players, and the use of lasers by supporters, as well as suspensions for Achraf Hakimi and Ismaël Saibari.
While Caf rejected Morocco’s initial protest challenging the legitimacy of Senegal’s victory, the Moroccan federation maintains that the disciplinary measures against Senegal were insufficient.
“These rulings fail to match the gravity and seriousness of the infractions,” the FRMF said, emphasizing its commitment to pursuing all legal avenues to secure a fair outcome.
In contrast, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has confirmed it will not appeal any of the sanctions, taking full financial and disciplinary responsibility.
“We acknowledge Caf’s decision and accept all fines and suspensions imposed,” the FSF said in a statement.
“We remain committed to promoting CAF regulations, the integrity of the game, and African football, while complying fully with our statutory obligations.”
The Moroccan appeal is expected to intensify debate over Caf’s disciplinary processes and the broader governance of African football, with observers noting that the chaotic final may have long-term implications for both federations’ reputations and for future tournament protocols.
