Lamine Yamal Condemns Islamophobic Chants as 'Ignorant and Racist'

Barcelona's rising star, Lamine Yamal, has addressed the Islamophobic taunts that took place during Spain's 0-0 draw against Egypt on Tuesday evening. The 18-year-old participated in the first half of the game before being substituted at halftime, appearing visibly upset on the bench.

The match at the RCDE Stadium was overshadowed by repeated, audible chants of "Whoever doesn't jump is Muslim" on three separate occasions. Following the game, Lamine Yamal departed the pitch alone while his teammates performed a lap of honour. Spain's manager, Luis de la Fuente, publicly denounced the discriminatory chants after the encounter.

Lamine Yamal Responds via Instagram

The following afternoon, Lamine Yamal used Instagram to articulate his distress, characterizing those responsible for the chants as both ignorant and racist.

I am a Muslim, alhamdulillah.

Yesterday at the stadium, the chant “whoever doesn’t jump is a Muslim” was heard. I know it was directed at the opposing team and wasn’t personal against me, but as a Muslim, it’s still disrespectful and intolerable.

I understand that not all fans are like that, but to those who chant these things: using a religion as a taunt on the field makes you ignorant and racist. Football is for enjoying and cheering, not for disrespecting people for who they are or what they believe.

That said, thank you to everyone who came to support us, see you at the World Cup. 🤍

Espanyol Releases Statement Regarding Chants

Meanwhile, Catalan police have initiated an investigation into the incidents. In the wake of the controversy, Espanyol has issued a statement. The club unequivocally condemns all racist chanting, describing such behaviour as abhorrent and unacceptable. However, they also expressed disappointment at what they perceive as an unwarranted campaign to tarnish the reputation of Espanyol fans. The statement clarified that the supporters present at the stadium were primarily Spain fans, representing various clubs, not solely Espanyol supporters.