San Diego FC condemns 'unacceptable' homophobic chant at first home soccer game

San Diego FC has promised "immediate" action after its fans engaged in a homophobic chant at the Major League Soccer team's first home game over the weekend.

San Diego hosted St. Louis City on Saturday, ending the game with a score of 0-0. Despite the lack of action in goals scored, the game's spectators became rowdy in the second half, with fans yelling out the chant three different times.

The chant, which is a one-word slur meaning 'male prostitute' in Spanish, has been used commonly by Mexico soccer fans over the last two decades, according to the Associated Press.

While Mexican soccer officials and FIFA have attempted sanctions and campaigns to discourage the chant, fans have persisted to use it as recently as the Mexico v United States match last March. That match was paused due to the consistent use of the slur by spectators, particularly used to try to throw off an opposing goalkeeper before a player winds up to take a free kick.

Now, San Diego FC is attempting to shut down the chant's use within their own crowd.

"What took place during our first-ever home match does not reflect who we are as a club or the values we stand for," a statement from the club said Monday. "The sport of football brings people together and in San Diego that inclusive spirit thrives."

The statement added that "the use of homophobic language in our stadium is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated."

"San Diego FC is built on respect and the belief that soccer is for everyone," the statement said. "We are committed to fostering an environment where all fans, players and staff feel safe and welcome."

The club said it would take "immediate steps to address this behavior" and plans to "communicate a detailed plan prior to the next home match.” 

The offensive chant marred the club's first ever home game, having only joined the MLS this year.

San Diego FC was first announced as a new addition to the league in May 2023, joining the National Women's Soccer League's San Diego Wave FC at Snapdragon Stadium. The team played its first game in the league on February 23 in Los Angeles.

MLS commissioner Don Garber said in May 2023 that he had long believed San Diego would be a "a terrific MLS market," citing its "youthful energy" and "great diversity."

San Diego will host its second home game on March 15, when the squad will face off with the Columbus Crew.