San Diego FC Takes Strong Stance Against Anti-Gay Chant

San Diego, California – San Diego FC has unveiled a robust plan to combat the anti-gay chant that echoed through Snapdragon Stadium during the team’s home opener against St. Louis on March 1. In response to the discriminatory behavior, which marred the inaugural match resulting in a 0-0 draw, team officials are enforcing measures to ensure a welcoming environment at their games.

The club’s initiative includes heightened security protocols, comprehensive pre-match messaging, and strict enforcement of policies that reflect a commitment to inclusivity. “Following the use of discriminatory language during San Diego FC’s inaugural home match, SDFC is implementing a comprehensive plan to reinforce the Club’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful matchday environment,” the team stated in a public announcement.

Central to these measures is the implementation of FIFA‘s three-step protocol, which allows officials to stop, suspend, or even abandon a match if discriminatory behavior persists. The increased security presence at Snapdragon Stadium aims to identify and eject individuals participating in the chant, which has been historically prevalent in Mexican soccer.

The team will also increase signage throughout the stadium, displaying the phrase “Aquí No, Not Here” to reinforce their no-tolerance policy against homophobic language. According to the club, additional security personnel will be positioned near critical areas, particularly around the opposing goalkeeper’s section, to ensure prompt action against offenders.

“What took place during our first-ever home match does not reflect who we are as a club or the values we stand for,” the club emphasized. “The sport of football brings people together, and in San Diego, that inclusive spirit thrives. The use of homophobic language in our stadium is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”

Following the March 1 incident, which saw the chant used three times despite repeated requests from officials to cease, San Diego FC’s head coach Mikey Varas spoke out against the behavior. “The chant that was heard tonight is unacceptable… It doesn’t represent the players, myself, or the club, and it certainly doesn’t represent San Diego or Baja California,” Varas remarked. “We’re a community full of love, of support, and we believe in the power of diversity.”

The chant in question, “puto,” is a Spanish term that denotes male prostitutes and has been a point of contention in soccer, leading to severe penalties for the Mexican national team in the past. FIFA previously ruled that the Mexican National Team would play two World Cup qualifying matches in an empty stadium due to concerns over the chant being used by fans.

In light of San Diego FC’s proactive measures, the 2023 and 2024 U.S. vs. Mexico CONCACAF matches were also suspended due to similar chants from Mexican fans. The upcoming home game on March 15 will see these new protocols put into immediate action, as the club strives to uphold their mission of inclusivity in sports.