ZURICH – FIFA has imposed immediate sanctions on the Salvadoran Football Federation (FESFUT) for racist and discriminatory behavior by its fans during a recent 2026 World Cup qualifier.
The world football governing body has fined FESFUT $62,715 and ordered that the federation’s next official home match be played with a partial stadium closure. A minimum of 15% of the stadium’s capacity—specifically sections behind the goals—must be left empty as a direct punishment.
The sanctions stem from incidents during El Salvador’s September 8th match against Suriname at the Cuscatlán Stadium, where fans allegedly directed racist chants and gestures at opposing players.
In a statement, FESFUT acknowledged the sanctions and reiterated its “firm rejection of any manifestation of racism or discrimination.”
The punishment comes at a critical time for La Selecta, who sit second in their qualifying group. They are scheduled to host Panama on October 10th, the match likely to be affected by the partial stadium closure.
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