Lamine Yamal slams ‘ignorant and racist’ Islamophobic chants

Lamine Yamal has issued a powerful condemnation of Islamophobic chanting, following a friendly match between Spain and Egypt at the RCDE Stadium in Barcelona.

The teenage star, who is a practicing Muslim, used his social media platforms to address the “intolerable” behavior of sections of the crowd during Tuesday’s scoreless draw, which served as a warm-up for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.

The incident centered on a derogatory chant, “the one who doesn’t jump is Muslim,” which echoed through the stands during the international fixture.

While the provocation was primarily aimed at the Egyptian national team, Yamal made it clear that such rhetoric is an affront to his identity and the sport at large.

“I am Muslim, alhamdulillah,” Yamal stated, noting that while the chants were directed at the rival team, they remained a “lack of respect” that cannot be overlooked in a modern sporting environment.

The 18-year-old winger, who was visibly affected during the match and substituted at half-time, did not mince words regarding those involved.

“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.

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

“That said, thanks to the people who came to cheer us on, see you at the World Cup”.

The fallout from the match has prompted swift action from Spanish authorities. The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) released a statement strongly condemning the xenophobic acts, while Spain manager Luis de la Fuente expressed his “total and absolute repulsion” toward the chants.

Local police have since launched a formal investigation to identify those responsible for the Islamophobic displays.