The International Football Federation (FIFA) has formally initiated a disciplinary case against the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), as reported by the news agency AFP.
This inquiry stems from disturbing reports of anti-Muslim chants during a recent friendly match between Spain and Egypt on March 31. Witnesses noted that a section of Spanish fans engaged in chanting, “he who does not jump is a Muslim,” while rhythmically leaping in unison.
In response to the outcry, the RFEF has already denounced the offensive chants. However, the federation now faces potential sanctions due to the actions of its supporters.
Among those impacted by this incident is Lamine Yamal, an 18-year-old winger for FC Barcelona and a publicly practicing Muslim. After the match, he took to social media to voice his disapproval of the fans’ behavior.
“I understand they were targeting the opposing team and that it wasn’t personal towards me. Still, as a Muslim, I find it disrespectful and frankly intolerable,” Yamal stated. “Not all fans behave this way, but for those who do: employing religion as a tool for mockery reflects ignorance and racism.”
Spanish football has grappled with issues of racism for years, with Real Madrid’s Brazilian star Vinicius Junior frequently calling attention to such incidents.
The friendly match concluded in a scoreless draw.
