Mexico are facing punishment from FIFA for the homophobic chanting of their fans at the World Cup in Russia

Thousands of Mexico fans are accused of repeatedly shouting the word ‘puto’ – Spanish for male prostitute – during their World Cup opening victory over holders, Germany, at the Luzhniki Stadium.

It is believed the chants were targeted at Germany’s goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer.

FIFA have instigated a three-step process for dealing with bigotry coming from the stands for the tournament, however Sunday’s chanting did not trigger the process. Step 1 involves the referee bringing the game to a halt so that an announcement can be made over the public address system. Step 2 sees the match suspended before total abandonment follows.

A FIFA spokesperson told the Daily Telegraph, “A public announcement was prepared, but the chants ceased. After the match, and as an important step for further action, the incident was duly included in the match report, as well as the evidence produced by the anti-discrimination observers. Based on those reports, Fifa’s disciplinary committee has opened proceedings against the Mexican FA.”

MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 17: Mexico supporters enjoy the pre-match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group F match between Germany and Mexico at Luzhniki Stadium on June 17, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
MOSCOW, RUSSIA – JUNE 17: Mexico supporters enjoy the pre-match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group F match between Germany and Mexico at Luzhniki Stadium on June 17, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)xico, FIFA

This is not the first time Mexico have got themselves into trouble for this chant.

They were repeatedly fined during qualifying, gathering up 12 ‘transgressions’ although no stadium ban followed despite continued infractions.

The Telegraph also report that the Court of Arbitration for Sport overturned two of Mexico’s fines, ruling that the chants on those occasions had been ‘insulting’ but not intended to offend.

CAS did not make clear quite what the point of insulting someone is if it is not to offend.

FIFA were heavily criticised for not taking action against Mexico for the same chants during the Brazil World Cup four years ago.

Of those qualifying for the Russia World Cup the following sides were punished for homophobic abuse:

  • Mexico (12)
  • Chile (10)
  • Argentina (6)
  • Brazil (5)
  • Honduras (5)

A further 18 incidents from other nations were also punished.

Only Chile and Honduras received a stadium ban.