CAF Unleashes Massive Fines & Bans on Both Senegal and Morocco After Explosive AFCON Final Chaos

CAF Hits Both Senegal And Morocco With Massive Fines And Suspensions

The Confederation of African Football has imposed heavy fines and lengthy suspensions on both Senegal and Morocco following explosive scenes during the Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat, a match that ended in controversy, stoppages and post-match sanctions. The January 18, 2026 final, won 1–0 by Senegal after extra time, has now resulted in millions of dollars in penalties and bans affecting coaches, players and football authorities on both sides.

CAF confirmed the sanctions on Wednesday, January 29, 2026, following disciplinary proceedings linked to incidents that unfolded during and after the final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

CAF Sanctions Senegal After Touchline And Player Incidents

CAF announced that Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has been banned for five CAF matches after being found guilty of “unsporting conduct” and “bringing the game into disrepute”.

In its statement, CAF said:

“The Senegal head coach, Pape Thiaw, has been sanctioned with a five-match suspension and a financial penalty for conduct deemed incompatible with the principles of fair play, loyalty and integrity.”

Thiaw was also fined US$100,000 (approximately R1.9 million).

Two Senegal players, Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr, were each handed two-match bans.

CAF stated:

“The players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr have been suspended for two matches for unsporting behaviour towards the referee during the final.”

The Senegal Football Federation (FSF) received the heaviest institutional penalty, a fine of US$615,000 (approximately R11.5 million) for multiple breaches of the CAF disciplinary code.

Morocco Players, Ball Boys And Fans Also Punished

Morocco were also sanctioned following incidents involving players, technical staff and supporters.

Ismael Saibari was banned for three matches and fined US$100,000 (approximately R1.9 million) for unsporting behaviour. Captain Achraf Hakimi received a two-match suspension.

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) was fined US$315,000 (approximately R5.9 million).

CAF said:

“Sanctions have been imposed for inappropriate behaviour of stadium ball boys, improper conduct by players and technical staff in the VAR review area, and the use of laser devices by supporters.”

What Sparked The AFCON Final Fallout

The final descended into chaos late in regulation time. A goal by Ismaila Sarr was disallowed for a foul on Hakimi, the 2025 African Player of the Year. Minutes later, Morocco were awarded a penalty after Brahim Diaz was fouled, prompting protests and a temporary walk-off by Senegal players.

Television footage showed Thiaw gesturing from the technical area as players headed towards the tunnel. Sadio Mane later convinced teammates to return. Diaz missed the penalty, which was saved by Edouard Mendy. Pape Gueye scored in extra time to seal Senegal’s second AFCON title.

CAF confirmed that all suspensions apply only to CAF competitions and do not affect 2026 FIFA World Cup participation.

AT A GLANCE: AFCON Final Fines And Suspensions

Senegal

Pape Thiaw (Head Coach)
- Five-match CAF ban
- Fine: US$100,000 (approximately R1.9 million)
Iliman Ndiaye (Player)
- Two-match CAF suspension
Ismaila Sarr (Player)
- Two-match CAF suspension
Senegal Football Federation (FSF)
- Total fine: US$615,000 (approximately R11.5 million)

Morocco

Ismael Saibari (Player)
- Three-match CAF suspension
- Fine: US$100,000 (approximately R1.9 million)
Achraf Hakimi (Captain)
- Two-match CAF suspension
Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF)
- Total fine: US$315,000 (approximately R5.9 million)