The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has come down hard on those involved in the explosive scenes that followed the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, issuing sweeping suspensions and eye-watering fines in what it calls a decisive move to safeguard discipline and respect in African football.
Senegal bore the brunt of the sanctions. Head coach Pape Thiaw has been sidelined for five CAF competition matches and fined $100,000 after leading his players off the pitch in protest following the final whistle of the controversial showdown.
CAF’s disciplinary committee also sanctioned Senegalese stars Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaïla Sarr, suspending each for two matches in CAF competitions due to unsporting conduct directed at match officials.
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In total, Senegal have been slapped with a staggering $615,000 fine, broken down into:
- $300,000 for improper conduct by supporters
- $300,000 for unsporting behaviour by players and technical staff.
- $15,000 for team disciplinary misconduct after accumulating five yellow cards.
CAF said the measures were unavoidable, stressing the need to defend the integrity of its tournaments and reinforce respect for referees and officials.
Morocco were also firmly in the disciplinary spotlight. Star fullback Achraf Hakimi has been banned for two CAF matches after being found guilty of what CAF termed “towel-related misconduct” towards match officials.
Midfielder Ismael Saibari received an even stiffer punishment, a three-match suspension alongside a $100,000 fine, for a similar offence.
The Morocco Football Federation (FRMF) was fined $315,000 in total, comprising:
- $200,000 for ball boys’ unsporting conduct involving towels
- $100,000 for unsporting behaviour by players and officials
- $15,000 for the use of laser pointers by supporters.
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According to CAF’s disciplinary committee, the sanctions are intended to send a clear and uncompromising message that misconduct, whether from players, officials, or supporters, will not be tolerated, particularly on the grandest stages of African football like the Africa Cup of Nations.
The rulings have ignited widespread debate across the continent. While some observers are demanding greater consistency in refereeing decisions, others believe CAF’s tough stance was necessary to restore order, authority, and respect in the game.
