San Diego FC Takes Action Against Homophobic Chant

San Diego FC plans to address a homophobic chant that disrupted its inaugural Major League Soccer home game. The chant occurred three times during a scoreless draw with St. Louis City. The club issued a statement on Monday condemning the chant for a second time, saying: "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 use of homophobic language in our stadium is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated." Head coach Mikey Varas said: "I just want to make very clear that it has no place here ... If they're going to continue to come to the game and make that chant, it's better that they don't come here."

Sporting director Tyler Heaps also condemned the behavior. The statement emphasized that soccer is for everyone. San Diego FC will take steps to prevent such behavior before their next match against Columbus on March 15, and said a detailed plan will be communicated soon. Snapdragon Stadium held 34,506 fans during the event. The chant typically occurs when the opposing goalkeeper takes a goal kick. It is common in Mexican national team games, leading to FIFA fines and match disruptions. Such issues remain relevant as preparations continue for the 2026 World Cup in North America, with 13 matches scheduled in Mexico. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)