CAF Suspends and Fines Moroccan Coach in AFCON Incident
CAF Suspends and Fines Moroccan Coach in AFCON Incident
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Disciplinary Board has taken action regarding the post-match incidents during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) fixture between Morocco and the Democratic Republic of Congo on January 21, 2024. Moroccan Coach Walid Regragui has been suspended and fined as a result of the disciplinary proceedings.
- Suspension: Regragui has been suspended for four matches. Two of these matches are suspended for a year, meaning they will only take effect if there are further infractions within that period.
- Fine: In addition to the suspension, Regragui has been fined $5,000.
This disciplinary action led to Morocco facing Zambia in their final Group F match without their coach. The match ended in Morocco’s favor and resulted in Zambia’s elimination from the AFCON.
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) and the Congolese Association Football Federation (FECOFA) were also found guilty on various charges:
- Fine on FRMF and FECOFA: Both federations were fined $20,000 each.
- Additional Fine on FRMF: FRMF received an additional $10,000 fine for the use of smoke bombs by its supporters during the match. $5,000 of this amount is suspended.
The disciplinary proceedings were initiated due to post-match tensions between Moroccan coach Walid Regragui and the Democratic Republic of Congo captain Chancel Mbemba. Videos circulated on social media showed ongoing tensions between the two teams even after the match had concluded.
While the verdict has been made, reports suggest that the FRMF has lodged an appeal, contesting that the decision is unjust. The outcome of the appeal will be revealed after the expiration of the appeal period, as per the CAF Disciplinary Code.
