FIFA Launches Disciplinary Action Over Chants at Friendly Match

FIFA has announced that it is initiating disciplinary proceedings regarding alleged anti-Muslim chants that some fans directed at a recent international friendly match between Spain and Egypt.

The governing body for football stated that this action is taken against the Spanish Football Federation in light of the incident.

“Today, FIFA has started disciplinary proceedings against the Spanish Football Federation concerning an incident that happened during a friendly match against Egypt.”

The match took place at the RCDE Stadium in Catalonia, Spain, on March 31, where Spain was the host team. In front of a crowd of 40,000—a venue possibly slated for future World Cup matches—some fans were reportedly heard chanting: “Bote, bote, bote mussulman el que no bote,” which translates to “Jump, jump, jump, anyone who doesn’t jump is a Muslim.” I caught that chant multiple times during the game.

Stadium announcers reminded attendees of the venue’s policy against any form of discriminatory behavior after reports emerged about the anti-Muslim chants.

According to the World Religions Database, around 90% of Egypt’s population identifies as Muslim, emphasizing the cultural context of the match.

On the following day, Spanish player Lamine Yamal spoke out against the chants, labeling those responsible as “ignorant and racist.”

“I am a Muslim, thank God,” the 18-year-old shared on Instagram. “I realize that not every fan base behaves this way, but for those who engage in chants like that, using religion to mock individuals in a football setting feels both ignorant and racist.”

Yamal’s post concluded with, “Football is meant for enjoyment and cheering, not for hurting people based on their identity or beliefs.”

The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) responded quickly, condemning these actions even before the match ended, with players João García and Pedri echoing similar sentiments afterward.

The RFEF stated in a release, “We oppose racism in football and condemn all forms of violence within stadiums,” issuing the statement shortly after the game.

Broader criticism extended beyond the pitch, with Spain’s Minister of Education and the Council on American-Islamic Relations also denouncing the chants.

Spain’s national team coach, Luis de la Fuente, condemned the incident as well, expressing, “I completely abhor any form of xenophobia or racism. It is utterly intolerable,” in a news conference.