FIFA fines Spain over anti-Muslim chants during friendly against Egypt

Friday 16 - 20:25

By: Azzat Manal

FIFA fines Spain over anti-Muslim chants during friendly against Egypt

FIFA has fined the Spanish Football Federation $20,000 and ordered a partial stadium closure for Spain’s next home international match following anti-Muslim chants by supporters during a friendly against Egypt in March. The disciplinary measures address discriminatory conduct reported at the RCDE Stadium near Barcelona, where the two national teams played out a goalless draw ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

During the match, some Spanish supporters repeatedly chanted a slogan targeting Muslims. After the chant was heard for a second time, the stadium announcer issued a warning, while a message condemning discriminatory behaviour appeared on the scoreboard. The incident prompted criticism and raised renewed concerns about religious discrimination in football stadiums.

Spanish international Lamine Yamal, a Muslim player of Moroccan heritage, condemned the chants at the time, describing them as disrespectful and unacceptable. He also criticised those responsible, calling them ignorant and racist. His response brought additional attention to the incident and the impact such behaviour can have on players and supporters.

Spanish police opened an investigation the following day, while FIFA subsequently initiated disciplinary proceedings against the Spanish federation. The case formed part of the governing body's efforts to address discriminatory conduct and enforce its regulations across international football.

The Spanish federation reportedly argued that the word “Muslim” was not inherently insulting or degrading. It also maintained that the supporters’ behaviour should be assessed under Article 17 of FIFA’s Disciplinary Code, which covers political, ideological, religious and offensive messages, rather than Article 15, which addresses discrimination and racist abuse.

FIFA’s disciplinary committee rejected that argument, stating that discriminatory language does not necessarily require an explicitly offensive term. According to the committee’s reasoning, a word or expression may become discriminatory depending on the context in which it is used, particularly when it serves to ridicule, insult or portray a group as inferior.

Under the ruling, Spain must close at least 15% of the available seating capacity at its next home international friendly. The sanction is intended to reinforce the responsibility of football associations to prevent discriminatory conduct and respond effectively when incidents occur.

The case adds to the wider debate over how football authorities should tackle racism, religious intolerance and other forms of discrimination in the sport. While disciplinary measures can impose financial and sporting consequences on national federations, the incident also highlights the importance of stadium announcements, public condemnation and sustained efforts to promote respect among supporters.