FIFA has ordered Spain to partially close its stadium during the national team’s next home friendly after supporters directed anti-Muslim chants at a match against Egypt on March 31, 2026. The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) must keep at least 15% of available seats closed, primarily in the stands behind the goals. FIFA also imposed a $20,000 fine after its appeals body upheld the disciplinary ruling in October. 

The incident occurred at Barcelona’s RCDE Stadium during a goalless draw between Spain and Egypt. Some supporters reportedly chanted, “If you don’t jump, you’re a Muslim,” around the 10th minute and again shortly after the second half began. Stadium officials displayed anti-discrimination warnings and made announcements urging fans to stop. Some spectators responded by whistling at the warnings. 

Spanish winger Lamine Yamal, who is Muslim, condemned the chants in an April social media post, describing them as disrespectful and intolerable. He said using religion as a taunt demonstrated ignorance and racism. Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente also called the incident intolerable, while the Egyptian Football Association condemned the chants as a racist act.

FIFA rejected the RFEF’s argument that the word “Muslim” was not inherently insulting and that the incident should not be treated as discrimination. Its disciplinary committee determined that words not offensive in isolation can become discriminatory when used to ridicule or demean a religious identity. FIFA acknowledged that Spanish officials had condemned the behaviour, cooperated with authorities and taken steps to identify those responsible. 

The RFEF has said it will appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, arguing that it responded promptly and that the punishment is disproportionately severe. The stadium restriction applies to Spain’s next home friendly, with the affected seats potentially allocated to families, students or anti-discrimination organisations if FIFA approves a plan that includes visible anti-discrimination measures. The timing will depend on Spain’s international fixture schedule.