Is Morocco investing in the “racism of Spanish stadiums” in the 2030 World Cup?

The repercussions of the “Cornilla case” are still casting a shadow over the football scene in Spain, after the events that took place at Espanyol Stadium during the friendly match between the Spanish and Egyptian national teams, which witnessed the chanting of chants described as racist and offensive.

An internal report by the Spanish Football Federation to “Marca” revealed that the source of the chants was from the southern side of the stadium, specifically from sectors 108 to 110, where four main chants were recorded that were considered a violation, including insulting expressions against Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, and others of a religious and exclusionary nature, in addition to the famous chant, “Whoever does not jump is a Muslim,” in addition to directing booing whistles at goalkeeper Juan Garcia.

Although these chants did not include the entire stadium, their intensity was sufficient to impose rapid intervention from the organizing authorities, as the European Football Association protocol was activated, with alerts sent through loudspeakers and stadium screens.

In a related context, the Spanish authorities launched extensive investigations. The Public Prosecution has been notified, while the security services are analyzing the video recordings to identify those involved, in coordination with the competent authorities in cases of hatred and discrimination.

These investigations are expected to determine whether the incidents amount to crimes punishable by law, or will be dealt with within the framework of administrative penalties related to combating violence and racism in stadiums.

The FIFA Disciplinary Code also allows for the imposition of strict penalties, which may include financial fines or partial closure of stands.

The issue did not remain confined to the Spanish interior; According to Marca, its resonance has extended to Morocco, which is participating in organizing the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.

The Spanish newspaper added that some Moroccan media took advantage of this incident to question the ability of Spanish stadiums to reduce manifestations of racism, considering that this may enhance Morocco's chances of hosting the final match.

Major cities are competing for the honor of hosting the final, including Casablanca, Madrid and Barcelona, in a race that is not devoid of political and symbolic dimensions.

The sensitivity of the file increased with the mention of the name of the rising star Lamine Yamal, who represents the Spanish national team and is of Moroccan origins, which made the incident also be read in a broader context linked to identity and cultural diversity within Spanish football.