Move follows widespread condemnation of the anti-Muslim chants during a friendly in March
Fifa has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Spanish football federation following abuse by supporters during Spain’s recent friendly against Egypt.
The match ended 0-0 but was overshadowed by crowd behaviour inside the stadium. The Iberian nation’s supporters were heard booing during the Egyptian national anthem and, later, chants were heard from sections of the crowd at RCDE Stadium.
Supporters were seen jumping and singing: “Bote, bote, bote musulman el que no bote,” which translates to “Jump, jump, jump, whoever doesn’t jump is a Muslim.” The chant was repeated during the first half and shortly after half time.
The incidents were noted by the match referee and included in his official report, and they were then referred to Fifa’s disciplinary committee.
Fifa confirmed in a statement released on Tuesday that it has “initiated disciplinary proceedings against the Spanish Football Federation in relation to the events that took place during the friendly match against Egypt”.
The situation has drawn condemnation from multiple quarters, including the Spanish government and the federation, as well as national team figures such as head coach Luis de la Fuente and player Lamine Yamal. Authorities in Spain have also taken action, with Catalan police launching an investigation into the events.
Potential sanctions for the Spanish federation could range from a fine to requirements for anti-racism messaging at future matches.
Fifa, under president Gianni Infantino, has maintained a strict stance on discrimination in football. The governing body has recently intensified efforts to address such incidents, including backing players like Vinicius Junior in cases involving racist abuse.
Vinicius has spoken in support of Yamal after the Barcelona winger condemned the anti-Muslim chants. Real Madrid’s forward said it was important for players to use their platform to fight against abuse.
“Hopefully we can continue with this fight,” Vinicius said. “It’s important that Lamine speaks about it. It could help others. We are famous, we have money, we can balance these things better, but the poor people and the Blacks who are everywhere, they surely struggle more than we do. So we have to stick together, those who have a stronger voice, the players.
“I’m not saying that Spain or Germany or Portugal are racist countries, but there are racists in these countries, and in Brazil and other countries as well. But if we keep fighting together, I think future players and people in general won’t have to go through this again.”
