CAF president Patrice Motsepe addressed the ongoing case of detained Senegalese football supporters in Morocco during a press conference held in Dakar on Wednesday, describing the matter as both "sensitive" and "diplomatic" in nature.
Motsepe acknowledged a degree of responsibility on the part of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), while stressing the importance of respecting the sovereignty of both Senegal and Morocco. "We respect the sovereignty of Senegal and that of Morocco," he stated, adding that CAF is fully engaged in seeking a resolution to the situation.
The case involves 18 Senegalese supporters who were detained in Morocco, reportedly in connection with incidents surrounding a football match. The detentions have drawn significant attention and concern from Senegalese authorities and football fans alike, putting pressure on CAF to intervene diplomatically.
Motsepe indicated that CAF is working through appropriate channels to address the matter, though he stopped short of providing a specific timeline for resolution. The case underscores the complex intersection of football governance and international diplomacy on the African continent, particularly as Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
