FIFA Launches Probe Against Spanish FA Over Anti-Muslim Chants

FIFA has launched disciplinary proceedings against the Royal Spanish Football Federation following reports of anti-Muslim chants by some fans during Spain's international friendly against Egypt on March 31 at RCDE Stadium in Barcelona.

The match, a 0-0 World Cup warmup hosted by the Spanish national team, drew a crowd of around 40,000 to the venue, which is being considered as a potential site for the 2026 tournament. Sections of supporters were heard chanting variations of "jump, jump, jump, whoever doesn't jump is a Muslim" multiple times throughout the game. Stadium officials responded by issuing warnings over the public address system and displaying messages on screens reminding fans that discriminatory behavior violates venue policies and constitutes a crime. Despite these interventions, the chants reportedly persisted.

FIFA announced the proceedings on April 7, stating it had reviewed match reports and video evidence from officials, the referee, and security teams. The governing body cited the incidents as the basis for action against the federation, which could result in fines, partial stadium closures, or other sanctions depending on the investigation's outcome.