The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has fined the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) $20,000 and ordered a partial stadium closure following discriminatory chants by some supporters during Spain’s international friendly against Egypt.
The sanctions followed a goalless draw between both countries at the RCDE Stadium in Barcelona on March 31, 2026. During the match, sections of the crowd reportedly chanted, “If you don’t jump, you’re a Muslim,” in the 10th and 47th minutes. Stadium officials subsequently issued warnings and displayed messages condemning discriminatory behaviour.
Spain international and Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, who is Muslim, condemned the chants after the match, describing them as disrespectful and intolerable. He also criticised the use of religion as a form of mockery, describing the behaviour as ignorant and racist.
FIFA’s disciplinary committee ruled that the chants constituted discriminatory conduct, explaining that words could become offensive depending on their context and use, even when they were not inherently derogatory. The governing body maintained that firm sanctions were necessary to discourage similar incidents.
Under the ruling, the Spanish federation must pay the $20,000 fine and close at least 15 per cent of the available seating at Spain’s next home friendly. The affected sections may instead be allocated to approved groups, including families, students and anti-discrimination organisations.
The Spanish federation had challenged the initial decision, arguing that it responded promptly to the incident, condemned the chants and cooperated with authorities to identify those responsible. Following the rejection of its appeal by FIFA, the federation announced plans to challenge the sanction before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The case has renewed discussions about racism, religious discrimination and the responsibility of football authorities to ensure that stadiums remain welcoming and safe for players and supporters of all backgrounds.
