Lamine Yamal condemns anti-muslim chants in Spain-Egypt friendly

Spain forward Lamine Yamal has strongly condemned anti-Muslim chants heard during his side’s goalless friendly against Egypt national football team, describing them as “intolerable” and disrespectful.

The incident occurred during a pre-World Cup fixture involving the Spain national football team, where sections of supporters were heard chanting phrases targeting Muslims.

‎In a statement released after the match, Yamal, who is Muslim, responded firmly.

‎“I am Muslim, alhamdulillah,” he said. “Yesterday in the stadium, the chant ‘the one who doesn’t boo is Muslim’ was heard. I know it was aimed at the rival team and it wasn’t something against me, but as a Muslim, it doesn’t stop being a lack of respect and something intolerable.”

‎The teenage star acknowledged that the behaviour did not represent all supporters but criticised those involved, calling for greater respect in football.

“I understand that not all the fans are like that… but to those who sing these things: using a religion as a joke in a stadium makes you look like ignorant and racist people,” he added.

‎Yamal stressed that football should remain a space for unity and enjoyment, rather than division.

“Football is for enjoying it and cheering, not for disrespecting people for who they are or what they believe in.”

‎Despite the controversy, the winger expressed gratitude to fans who supported the team positively and turned his focus to upcoming international competitions.

‎The match, which ended 0-0, forms part of preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with both sides continuing to fine-tune their squads ahead of the tournament.