Spanish authorities have commenced an investigation on Wednesday concerning Islamophobic and xenophobic chants that erupted during Tuesday’s friendly match against Egypt, an event that has drawn significant backlash from both Spain’s football officials and the government.
At the RCDE Stadium located near Barcelona, home to LaLiga club Espanyol, supporters of Spain chanted “who doesn’t jump is a Muslim” during the World Cup warm-up match, which concluded in a 0-0 stalemate.
Justice Minister Felix Bolanos took to social media platform X to condemn the chants, reinforcing the left-wing government’s position against the escalation of far-right ideologies, which they link to increasing levels of racism and xenophobia.
“Racist insults and chants bring shame upon us as a society. The far right will not leave a single space untouched by its hatred, and those who choose to remain silent today are complicit,” he stated.
This incident has intensified discussions surrounding racism in Spanish football, a longstanding issue particularly highlighted by cases involving Real Madrid’s Brazilian forward Vinicius Jr, who has faced significant abuse.
Despite messages displayed on overhead screens in the stadium reminding fans that engaging in acts of racism and xenophobia constitutes a crime, the chants persisted.
Spain’s manager, Luis de la Fuente, expressed to reporters that such racist behaviour exhibited by fans is utterly intolerable.
“These individuals do not represent football. They exploit football, just as they do in various aspects of life. We must work to isolate these people from society,” he asserted.
The Spanish Football Federation also voiced its stance via social media, declaring its opposition to racism in football and condemning any form of violence within stadiums.
Catalonia’s regional police force, Mossos d’Esquadra, announced on Wednesday that they have initiated an investigation into the occurrence, although further details have not been disclosed.
Lamine Yamal describes chant as ‘disrespectful’ and ‘unacceptable’
The chants were evidently directed at provoking the Egyptian team, but they also had an emotional impact on Lamine Yamal (18), who was seen leaving the stadium visibly shaken, as depicted in various videos circulating on social media.
In a swift response, the Barcelona player took to his Instagram account, stating: “Yesterday at the stadium, the chant ‘if you don’t jump, you’re Muslim’ was heard. I recognise it was aimed at the opposing team and not intended as a personal affront to me, but as a Muslim, it remains disrespectful and entirely unacceptable,” his message began.
“I understand that not all fans are like this, but to those who partake in such chanting: using a religion as a joke in a stadium only reflects your ignorance and racism.
“Football should be enjoyed and used to support our team, not to belittle individuals for who they are or what they believe.”
“Thank you to everyone who came out to support us. Looking forward to seeing you at the World Cup.”
Compiled by SportArena.au
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