AQUI NON! San Diego FC move quickly to stamp out offensive chant

San Diego FC have acted quickly to avoid a repeat of the embarassing ‘puto’ chant which marred their opening fixture two weeks ago.

The chant appeared around the 80th minute when the St Louis City goalkeeper Roman Burki took a goal kick from the south end.

Despte pleas over the public address system and a message on the scoreboard, a few persisted with the chant when he took a further goal kick.

The club has signaled a raft of measures that will be introduced to Saturday’s home match against Columbus Crew.

Significantly, more stewards are to be placed at the parts of the ground where the chant emanated.

Most observers two weeks ago heard the chant from the southern end of Snapdragon Stadium, the end nearest the trolley station.

Stewards will eject the culprits and stadium bans are a likely consequence of chanting the offensive word.

But it’s not just the club that wants to show its displeasure. The Supporters Section at the North End will display a banner laying out their opposition to hatred and bigotry.

In addition, the referee will have the power to stop or abandon the game if the chant persists.

The message from the club is quite clear. You are not wanted inside the stadium if you feel the need to chant ‘puto’.

Just stay away.

Here are the measures in full:

Key Actions:|

· Fan Communication: Fans and ticket buyers will receive direct communication from the Club via a Know Before You Go newsletter, which will include all match information and reinforce the Club’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful matchday environment.

· In-Stadium Signage: A flyer will be placed in all seat cupholders reminding fans that discriminatory language will not be tolerated, featuring the message: “Aquí No” / “Not Here.”

· Pre-Match Message: Prior to kickoff, SDFC CEO Tom Penn, Head Coach Mikey Varas, midfielder Aníbal Godoy, and Supporters’ Union leadership will deliver messages of unity, inclusivity, and zero tolerance.

· Supporters’ Banner: A visible in-stadium banner reinforcing the message condemning the chant will be displayed in the supporters’ section throughout the match.

· Enhanced Security Measures: The number of stadium security personnel will be increased and strategically positioned in key areas, with a heightened presence near the opposing goalkeeper’s section. Offenders will be identified, ejected, and may face additional sanctions.

· The FIFA three-step protocol will be in effect for SDFC home matches, which includes the ability to stop, suspend or abandon the match if discriminatory behavior persists.