RECIFE, BRAZIL - JUNE 23: Rafael Marquez of Mexico celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group A match between Croatia and Mexico at Arena Pernambuco on June 23, 2014 in Recife, Brazil. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)
Homophobic slurs at soccer games in Mexico will now result in five-year bans from stadiums, Mexican Football Federation (FMF) president Yon de Luisa said on Monday.
The federation has struggled to thwart anti-gay chants often shouted by Mexico supporters when an opposing goalkeeper takes a goal kick. In recent years, FIFA has handed the FMF fines and stadium bans that have forced matches behind closed doors due to the fan behavior.
Now, those who chant will be given a five-year ban—part of a new process that de Luisa announced on Monday. Also included are online ticket registration, a push for more positive fan experiences, heightened stadium security, as well as the ban.
“These measures are based on four pillars and will be applied rigorously in all home games organized by the Mexican Football Federation,” de Luisa said.
Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter!
A week of sports news in your in-box.
We find the sports news you need to know, so you don't have to.
The new rules will be implemented in Mexico’s next two World Cup qualifiers: against Costa Rica on January 30 and vs. Panama on February 2.
Last season, the Houston Astros faced a major setback. Houston finished 87-75 to miss the…
Former Houston Astros prospect Jon Kenner has died in a car accident at age 35.…
Dianna Russini’s departure from The Athletic has caused tension between The Athletic’s leadership and the…
The Washington Nationals have acquired reliever Richard Lovelady from the New York Mets. Lovelady was…
The Dallas Wings selected Azzi Fudd with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026…
Kawhi Leonard declined to talk about his future with the Los Angeles Clippers after they…