Mexican fans reportedly began homophobic chants during the World Cup round-of-16 match against Ecuador. Supporters of the co-hosts of the tournament are said to have directed the insult from the stands in Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium as Ecuador’s goalkeeper Hernán Galindez began a kick from the goal kick. Several outlets reported the incident amid the stadium’s extremely loud atmosphere, including the Associated Press.
The issue is not new in Mexico. About three weeks before the World Cup began, FIFA banned fan sections for this reason at a test match in Puebla (TheColu.mn reported). The Mexican federation had announced the measure beforehand. “In accordance with the decision, some sections were closed to public sale under the rules set by FIFA and the stadium operators,” read a statement from the FMF.
Games in Mexico End on Sunday
At the World Cup, Puebla isn’t one of the three host venues; along with Mexico City, Monterrey and Zapopan near Guadalajara were selected. The Mexican federation had launched, shortly before the World Cup in Mexico, as well as in the United States and Canada, a campaign titled “The Wave Yes, the Chant No.”
With the Wave is the legendary La Ola, which originated forty years ago at the World Cup in Mexico and has since served as a rallying mood-maker in stadiums around the world. The campaign is presented by players from the country’s former World Cup–winning squad.
The World Cup in Mexico is drawing toward its end. After the Mexico–Ecuador clash there is one more Round of 16 game scheduled for Sunday. The last eight matches starting from the quarterfinals will be played exclusively in the United States.
