Egypt slams racist chants in Barcelona and sends firm message to Spain

The Egyptian Football Association issued a strong statement Wednesday afternoon condemning racist incidents that took place during a friendly against Spain at RCDE Stadium in Barcelona.

According to the federation, a section of the crowd engaged in offensive behavior, including chants targeting Islam, during the match in Cornellà. The statement described the episode as unacceptable and called for collective action to eliminate such conduct from the game.

Egyptian federation thanks Spain for swift response

While sharply criticizing the incidents, Egypt’s governing body also acknowledged the widespread condemnation from across Spanish soccer and society.

The federation specifically thanked the Royal Spanish Football Federation, Spain’s Ministry of Sport, and prominent figures within the Spanish game for their swift and public denunciations. It emphasized that the reaction demonstrated a shared commitment to combating racism.

Egypt also noted that its national team competed “with strength and character” against Spain in what served as preparation for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

Working with FIFA to combat racism

The statement highlighted ongoing efforts at the international level to address discrimination in soccer.

Hany Abo Rida, president of the Egyptian Football Association, is working with FIFA officials and global partners to prevent similar incidents in stadiums worldwide, the federation said. It reiterated that racism and disrespect, including toward national symbols such as anthems, have no place in the sport.

FIFA has long positioned itself at the forefront of the fight against racism and discrimination, and Egypt reaffirmed its commitment to those efforts.

Relations with Spain remain unaffected

Despite the controversy, the Egyptian federation made clear that the actions of a minority of fans will not damage its relationship with Spain.

It pointed to the warm welcome received by the Egyptian delegation in Barcelona and expressed appreciation for the support shown during the visit.

The statement concluded by reaffirming Egypt’s openness to Spanish soccer representatives and fans, as well as to visitors from around the world, describing the country as a place of “civilization, love and peace.”

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