Stoppage in the Stand: Algerian YouTuber Detained in Morocco Over AFCON Incident
12 January 2026
Overview
A controversial incident led to the arrest of Algerian influencer Raouf Belkasmi in Morocco. The Rabat Public Prosecutor's Office ordered pre-trial detention and referred him to trial on suspicion of acts contrary to public morals at a sports venue.
What happened at AFCON 2025
The case stems from a widely circulated video showing Belkasmi behaving inappropriately in the stands of Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat during the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 Round of 16 match between Algeria and the DR Congo.
Moroccan authorities accuse him of several offenses, including acts contrary to morality in a public place, public indecency, and insulting a public facility, all punishable under the Moroccan penal code.
Belkasmi was detained in Casablanca on January 7 and brought to Rabat for further proceedings. Initially released on a provisional basis, prosecutors later ordered his re-arrest after reviewing the case.
The influencer has over 1.4 million followers online, which explains the widespread media and public attention. The Rabat court is expected to rule in the coming days.
Algeria were eliminated from AFCON 2025 at the quarterfinals after a 2-0 loss to Nigeria; semifinals will feature Egypt vs Senegal and Morocco vs Nigeria, with the final set for Sunday.
Punchline time: In football, the only thing sharper than a referee’s whistle is a viral video—though this one may have cut deeper than the lad’s career plans.
Punchline 2: If drama paid bills, his channel would be rich enough to buy the stadium’s PA system. In the world of football and fame, VAR is watching—and so are we, slow-mo style.
