The Mexico football federation were shocked when they were handed a 10.4K fine from FIFA. The Mexican football fans are the cause due to abusive chants during the match against Germany.
Mexico had a surprise win against Germany on June 17. They shocked the current world champions with a goal in the 35th minute and holding them to a 1-0 scoreline to collect three points.
The game was electrifying, though FIFA noticed problems from the Mexico fans during the match. The problem was the fans discriminatory “puto” chant that is directed at the opposition goal keeper.
For example, we can hear the chants caught by Telemundo’s, Andres Cantor, during the match against South Korea.
#MundialTelemundo ¿Aprendieron la lección? Los aficionados de @miseleccionmx están respetando al arquero rival y ya no realizan el grito homofóbico pic.twitter.com/QfHVzsUoMC
— Telemundo Deportes (@TelemundoSports) June 23, 2018
Unfortunately, Mexico has had a long history with their chants against opposition. The chant has haunted the team for the past decade. The current fine would be the 12th time FIFA has punished Mexico for the chant in three years.
Additionally, their fans actions followed from the 2014 World Cup. Surprisingly, FIFA waited 4 years to take greater actions on the situation.
Ironically, Russia, where the World Cup is being held has had its fair share of racism problems over the years. Making it very unreasonable to fine one country for a portion fans saying a word. FIFA are using certain situations to paper over the cracks of a serious problem.
FIFA came out with statements on how they came to the decision to fine Mexico. Javier Hernandez also urged the fans to stop saying the word.
"“To all Mexican fans in the stadiums, don’t shout ‘Puto’, “To all Mexican fans in the stadiums, don’t shout ‘Puto’,"
"“Let’s not risk another sanction.” “Let’s not risk another sanction.”"
Hopefully they listen to the players and change their attitude. Everyone wants to be in an atmosphere that they feel welcome in. Select people ruin the games with terrible sportsmanship.
Mexican fans are very passionate about football. They have no need to shout harmful language to generate an exciting atmosphere. You can see this when they sing their national anthem before the kick off.
Next: Germany justify world champion status to rejuvenate qualification hopes
Mexico are an exciting team looking to claim the trophy. Hopefully their issues get handled in timely manner.
What do you think of the fine against Mexico?