Outrage to national symbols: What the Moroccan justice system has decided for Algerian fans

The first defendant saw his conviction reduced from eight to five months in prison. He was found guilty of tearing up Moroccan banknotes during a match of his national team at the Grand Stadium of Marrakech. The justice system considered this behavior contrary to the laws in force in sports venues and offensive to the symbols of the country.

The second supporter benefited from a more significant reduction, his initial sentence of six months in prison being reduced to two months. The latter was prosecuted for insulting remarks made against the inhabitants of Marrakech. These offenses had been documented in widely circulated videos that had provoked strong indignation in the country.

These incidents took place in the stands during the 2025 Africa Cup competitions. The facts, widely reported on social media, had provoked strong reactions before the case was brought before the criminal chamber of the ochre city to rule on the responsibility of the two Algerians.