Co-host Mexico continues to grapple with queerphobic taunts from spectators during soccer matches. After recent incidents also at national-team games, FIFA restricted fan areas during the 2-0 friendly against Ghana at Puebla’s Estadio Cuauhtémoc.
The Mexican federation had previously announced the measure. “In accordance with the decision, some areas were restricted from public sale in line with the rules established by FIFA and the stadium operators,” the FMF said in a statement.
Puebla is not among the three World Cup host sites for the co-host. “Besides Mexico City, home to the famous Azteca Stadium, where on June 11 Mexico will open the 2026 tournament against South Africa, the other venues are near Monterrey and Guadalajara.”
Yes to the Wave, No to the Chants
Homophobic taunts and insults have long plagued Mexican football. “The Mexican Football Federation reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating any discriminatory behavior in stadiums,” the FMF said in its statement about FIFA’s sanction.
In addition, just ahead of the World Cup hosted in its own country as well as in the United States and Canada, the FMF has launched a campaign titled “The Wave—Yes; the Chant—No”.
By “the Wave” is meant the legendary La Ola, which began forty years ago at the World Cup in Mexico and has since become a global stadium staple.
The campaign is presented by players from the 1986 World Cup-winning team.
