Sports fans say the darndest things, from cheering on the home team to razzing the competition.
Some soccer fans’ comments apparently crossed a line this week, and it could mean trouble for two World Cup countries.
Both Brazil and Mexico may face punishment after fans for both countries chanted homophobic statements during World Cup play.
The Fare network, which is monitoring the tournament for discriminatory behavior, reported to FIFA that Brazil supporters chanted the word “puto” — which means male prostitute and is a gay slur in Spanish and Portuguese — at Mexico’s star goalieGuillermo Ochoa.
Mexican fans, meanwhile, has been cited for using the same chant during their opening round win over Cameroon.
FIFA confirmed that it has opened disciplinary proceedings against the two countries over the “improper conduct” of their fans. It’s likely that they will escape with a warning for a first offense, but if the chants continue, the two countries could be hit with point deductions.
Those weren’t the only offensive displays during the 2014 World Cup tournament so far. Russia and Croatia may be subject to similar punishment after “neo-Nazi” banners were waved during their initial games by fans.
COMMENTS
Please let us know if you're having issues with commenting.