FIFA has penalized the Spanish Football Association (RFEF) with a partial stadium closure and a $20,000 (£15,000) fine after supporters directed discriminatory, anti-Muslim chants during an international friendly against Egypt. The ruling dictates that 15% of the venue must be shut down during Spain's next friendly match, with the restrictions set to be implemented primarily across the stands located behind the goals. The sanctions stem from a 0-0 draw played at the RCDE Stadium in Barcelona on 31 March.
During the match, home supporters were heard singing the Islamophobic and xenophobic chants around the 10th minute of the first half and again at the start of the second half. Anti-discrimination warnings were broadcast on the stadium screens, drawing whistles from sections of the crowd when repeated after the interval. While the RFEF publicly condemned the chanting, it contended in written arguments to FIFA that the songs did not constitute discriminatory conduct. However, the governing body's disciplinary committee dismissed this defense, ruling that the federation could not persuasively claim the chanting was harmless while also acknowledging that it justified launching stadium anti-discrimination measures.
The conduct of the fans was firmly condemned by figures on both sides of the fixture. Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente branded the chants "intolerable," remarking that "violent people use football to carve out a space for themselves." The Egyptian Football Association also denounced the abuse as an unacceptable and "repugnant act of racism." Nevertheless, Egyptian officials emphasized that the behavior of a small group of supporters would not harm the close relationship shared by the two football federations.
Spain's next potential friendly match is scheduled for June; however, should the team advance to the finals of the Nations League, the stadium closure will be postponed until an open date during Euro 2028 qualifying next Autumn. The stands may not sit completely vacant, as Spain has been given permission, subject to FIFA's approval, to allocate the closed 15% capacity to special interest and community groups, including students, families, and anti-discrimination organisations.