FIFA opens disciplinary proceedings over anti-Muslim chants in Barcelona

ZURICH (AP) — FIFA on Tuesday opened disciplinary proceedings against the Spanish soccer federation because of anti-Muslim chants made by Spanish fans during a game against Egypt last week.

The chants drew condemnation from Spain star Lamine Yamal, the Spanish government and the soccer federation itself.

Spanish police had said they were investigating the behavior by fans during last Tuesday’s friendly game held in Barcelona.

“FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings today against the Spanish FA for the incidents in the friendly against Egypt,” soccer’s governing body said in a statement.

Yamal, who is Muslim, said the chants made by some of the fans at RCDE Stadium were disrespectful and intolerable. The Barcelona star said it didn’t matter that he was not targeted.

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