FIFA President Condemns ‘Unacceptable’ AFCON Final Scenes, Urges Respect for Officials

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has condemned the “violence” and walk-off scenes during the AFCON final, warning that such behaviour threatens the integrity of football.

FIFA Chief Slams ‘Violence’ and Lack of Respect After AFCON Final Chaos

The fallout from the chaotic Africa Cup of Nations final has reached the highest levels of world football, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino issuing a stern rebuke after witnessing the scenes in Rabat firsthand.

Infantino, who was present at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, condemned both the unrest in the stands and the conduct of Senegal’s technical staff and players following their walk-off protest during the closing moments of the match.

“We also witnessed unacceptable scenes on the field and in the stands,” Infantino said. “We strongly condemn the behaviour of some supporters as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members.”

His remarks underscored growing concern over the integrity of the game, particularly after Senegal briefly abandoned the pitch in protest of a late penalty awarded to Morocco.

“It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner, and equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport—it is simply not right,” the FIFA chief added. “We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials on and off the field of play. Teams must compete on the pitch and within the Laws of the Game, because anything less puts the very essence of football at risk.”

Infantino’s intervention follows CAF’s decision to open disciplinary proceedings into the incident, sending a clear message that even champions are not above the rules.

As African football celebrates Senegal’s dramatic triumph, global football’s leadership is now focused on ensuring that respect for referees, opponents, and the game itself remains non-negotiable.