Spain handed partial stadium closure after discriminatory chants
FIFA has ordered Spain to partially close their stadium for the next friendly match following anti-Muslim chants by supporters during the game against Egypt.
FIFA has sanctioned the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) following discriminatory incidents during Spain's friendly match against Egypt on 31 March. During the game, a group of Spain supporters were heard singing anti-Muslim chants on multiple occasions.
The FIFA disciplinary committee rejected arguments from the RFEF claiming the chants were harmless, noting that the federation could not simultaneously maintain that the conduct was benign while justifying the activation of anti-discrimination measures. The incident had prompted in-stadium warnings, which were met with whistles from some sections of the crowd.
As part of the disciplinary measures, Spain must close 15% of their stadium capacity—primarily behind the goals—for their next international friendly. The RFEF has also been fined $20,000. Under specific conditions, the federation may be permitted to fill these seats with community or educational groups.
While Spain manager Luis de la Fuente condemned the acts as "intolerable," the punishment is scheduled for the next friendly in June. However, if Spain qualifies for the Nations League finals, the stadium closure will be delayed until the Euro 2028 qualifying window next autumn.