FIFA Opens Disciplinary Proceedings Against Spanish FA Over Anti-Muslim Chants in Egypt Match

FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against the Spanish Football Association on Friday for incidents involving anti-Muslim chants by fans during Spain's friendly match against Egypt. The match, a goalless World Cup warm-up, took place at RCDE Stadium in Barcelona on Tuesday. Spanish police are investigating the fan conduct.

The chants, reported as "who doesn't jump is a Muslim," were directed at supporters and drew condemnation from multiple parties. Spain international Lamine Yamal, who is Muslim, described the behavior as disrespectful and intolerable, stating it did not matter that he was not personally targeted.

The Spanish Football Federation issued a statement condemning racism and any acts of violence in stadiums.

Spain's Justice Minister Felix Bolanos addressed the incident on social media, denouncing racist insults and chants. He linked the behavior to broader concerns about far-right influence and increasing racism in society. Overhead screens at the stadium displayed messages reminding fans that racism and xenophobia are crimes, yet the chants persisted.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente called the racist behavior intolerable and unrepresentative of football. He emphasized the need to isolate such individuals from society. The incident highlights ongoing issues with racism in Spanish football, including previous cases involving Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr.

“Racist insults and chants shame us as a society. The far right will not leave any space free of its hatred, and those who remain silent today are complicit.”

FIFA's action targets the Spanish FA specifically for the fan incidents during the match. No further details on potential sanctions were provided in the initial announcement. The proceedings underscore FIFA's stance against discriminatory behavior in international football.