FIFA Upholds $20,000 Fine, Partial Stadium Closure Against Spain Over Anti-Muslim Chants.

 

FIFA has upheld a $20,000 fine and a partial stadium closure imposed on the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) following anti-Muslim chants by supporters during an international friendly between Spain and Egypt in Barcelona.

The world football governing body’s appeals panel confirmed the sanctions after reviewing the initial decision by its disciplinary judges.

The case arose from the goalless draw between Spain and Egypt at RCDE Stadium on 31 March, during which sections of the crowd reportedly directed discriminatory chants at Muslim spectators in the 10th and 47th minutes.

Spanish winger Lamine Yamal publicly condemned the incident on social media, describing the behaviour as ignorant, disrespectful and racist.

In its ruling, FIFA’s disciplinary panel said strong sanctions were necessary to discourage discriminatory behaviour at football matches.

However, it acknowledged that Spanish officials had responded promptly by condemning the incident, cooperating with match delegates and taking steps to identify those responsible.

Under the terms of the sanction, the RFEF must pay a $20,000 fine and close at least 15 per cent of the stadium’s capacity, primarily in sections behind the goals, during its next home friendly.

FIFA added that the restricted sections could instead be allocated to community groups, students, families and organisations involved in anti-discrimination advocacy.

The provision is intended to ensure that the sanction also creates opportunities to promote inclusion and challenge discriminatory behaviour.

Following the rejection of its initial appeal by FIFA, the Spanish federation confirmed that it intended to challenge the severity of the punishment before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

The case has renewed attention on efforts by football authorities to combat racism and religious discrimination in the sport, as well as the measures imposed on national federations when supporters engage in discriminatory conduct.