AFCON 2025: CAF will not intervene in Senegal Fans arrest case - Patrice Motsepe

Patrice Motsepe has confirmed that the Confederation of African Football will not take direct action in the legal case involving Senegalese supporters arrested during the Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco.

The incident occurred during the chaotic final of the tournament in Rabat, part of the Africa Cup of Nations, where around 18 supporters from Senegal were detained on allegations of hooliganism.

Their appeal has faced repeated delays and is now scheduled to be heard on April 13, 2026.

Speaking to the media after an official visit to North Africa, Motsepe stressed that the matter lies strictly within national judicial systems and should be addressed through diplomatic channels between Senegal and Morocco.

He reiterated CAF’s position of non-interference in domestic legal proceedings, stating that football’s governing body respects the sovereignty of national courts across the continent and will not become involved in the case.

“CAF respects the legal sovereignty and judicial processes of all nations in Africa. I have been advised that discussions on this matter should take place directly between the governments of Senegal and Morocco. CAF fully respects these processes, as they concern the sovereignty of each nation."

Motsepe also added that his immediate focus remains on the FIFA World Cup and the broader development of African football on the global stage.

“For me, my focus now is on the FIFA World Cup and supporting African football on the global stage.”

The comments come amid continued scrutiny following the incidents in Rabat, with diplomatic engagement expected to play a key role in the next phase of the matter.