Barcelona, April 1: Spanish footballer Lamine Yamal spoke out after a viral video showed some fans shouting an offensive and communal chant during a pre-World Cup friendly match between Spain National Football team and Egypt National Football team. Yamal said that he is a Muslim and the behaviour of the fans at the stadium was disrespectful and unacceptable.
The football match between Spain and Egypt at the RCDE Stadium on March 31 ended in a 0-0 draw, however, the controversy took the attention away from the game. Before the match started, the fans present at the stadium whistled during Egypt's national anthem.
Crowd's Offensive Chant
During the match, a section of the crowd also chanted, "If you don't jump, you're a Muslim." This was widely criticised as offensive.
Yamal, who is a Moroccan background Muslim footballer, shared a strong message on his official social media account and said that football should be about respect, unity and support - not about insulting someone's religion.
The internet users criticised the incident and said that such actions go against the spirit of the game, especially at a time when teams are preparing for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026.
Lamine Yamal's Social Media Post
I am Muslim, alhamdulillah.
Yesterday at the stadium, a chant was heard: “If you’re not jumping, you’re Muslim.” I know it was aimed at the rival team and not something personal against me, but as a Muslim, it is still disrespectful and unacceptable.
I understand that not all fans are like this, but to those who chant such things: using a religion as a joke in a stadium makes you look ignorant and racist. Football is meant to be enjoyed and to support your team, not to disrespect people for who they are or what they believe.
That said, thank you to those who came to support us. See you at the World Cup.
