FIFA has launched disciplinary proceedings against the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) after reports of Islamophobic and xenophobic chants during Spain’s friendly match against Egypt on March 31.
The incident took place at RCDE Stadium near Barcelona, home to LaLiga club Espanyol, where some fans reportedly shouted, “Who doesn’t jump is a Muslim,” as the game ended in a goalless draw.
“FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings today against the Spanish FA for the incidents in the friendly against Egypt,” the organization said in a statement.
Spanish police have also begun investigating the incident. Spain winger Lamine Yamal condemned the chants on Instagram, calling them “disrespectful and intolerable.”
The Egyptian Football Association described the behavior as a “repugnant act of racism” and stressed that the actions of a small group of spectators would not affect the strong relationship between the Spanish and Egyptian federations.
