FIFA has officially opened disciplinary proceedings against the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) in response to anti-Muslim chants heard during Spain's recent international friendly against Egypt on March 31. The incident, which took place at Espanyol’s RCDE Stadium in Catalonia, has drawn widespread condemnation from players, officials, and advocacy groups.

“FIFA has today initiated disciplinary proceedings against the Spanish Football Federation for the incidents that occurred during the friendly match against Egypt,” the global governing body announced on Tuesday. The chants in question included the phrase: “bote, bote, bote musulman el que no bote,” which translates to “jump, jump, jump, whoever doesn’t jump is a Muslim.” The chant was heard multiple times during the match, including in the first half and shortly after halftime.

Officials at the stadium attempted to intervene during the match, with the public address announcer warning fans against discriminatory behavior. Egypt is a predominantly Muslim nation, with approximately 90% of its population following Islam, according to the World Religion Database.

The offensive chanting has sparked outrage among players and public figures. Lamine Yamal, the 18-year-old Spanish international and proud Muslim, took to Instagram to denounce the actions of the fans. “I am a Muslim, thank God,” Yamal posted. “I understand not all the fanbase is like that, but to those who sing those chants: using religion as something to mock people in a football stadium leaves you as ignorant and racist people. Football is to enjoy and support, not to offend people by who they are or what they believe in.”

Yamal’s Barcelona teammates, including Joan Garcia and Pedri, also voiced their disapproval after the match. The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) issued a statement condemning the behavior while the game was still in progress, reaffirming its stance against discrimination.

Further criticism came from Spain’s minister of education, vocational training, and sport, as well as international organizations such as the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), which called for accountability and education around religious intolerance in sports.

The FIFA investigation could result in sanctions against the RFEF, including fines or stadium bans, as part of its zero-tolerance policy toward discriminatory conduct in football. The case highlights ongoing challenges in combating racism and religious prejudice in European stadiums, despite efforts by governing bodies to promote inclusivity.