Jordan Pickford faces homophobic chanting during World Cup match against Mexico
Jordan Pickford was subjected to repeated homophobic chanting during England’s dramatic 3-2 World Cup victory over Mexico, prompting fresh calls for FIFA to take stronger action against discriminatory behaviour, reports BritPanorama.
The England goalkeeper delivered an impressive display, helping Thomas Tuchel’s side book their place in the quarter-finals. However, his performance was marred by chants from sections of the crowd at the Azteca Stadium.
Supporters repeatedly shouted “puto” as Pickford prepared to take goal-kicks throughout the contest. This chant has long been a controversial issue in Mexican football and has previously resulted in disciplinary action against the Mexican Football Federation.
While some former Mexican players argue that the term is part of football culture, Mexico’s National Council to Prevent Discrimination (CONAPRED) classifies it as a homophobic slur. FIFA has imposed substantial fines and other penalties on the Mexican Football Federation in response to the chant’s repeated use.
Following the match, England supporters’ groups Three Lions Pride and Pride in Football condemned the chanting and urged football’s governing bodies to intensify their efforts to combat discrimination. In a joint statement, they expressed disappointment at the widespread homophobic chanting aimed at Pickford, contrasting it with the notion that such chants are merely football banter. “It is simply impossible to strip away its history as a homophobic slur,” they added.
The groups highlighted that this incident marked the third occurrence of such chanting from El Tri fans during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, happening previously in matches against Czechia and Ecuador. They called for more effective anti-discrimination messaging and educational initiatives from FIFA and the Mexican FA, stressing the need for stronger punishment if chanting persists.
Despite the hostile environment, Pickford remained composed throughout the match, making several crucial saves as England edged past the co-hosts in an entertaining encounter without visibly reacting to the chants. England will now focus on their quarter-final match against Norway in Miami, where victory would advance them to the semi-finals against either Argentina or Switzerland.
As the tournament progresses, this incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges football faces in eradicating discrimination, echoing how the game is often a reflection of society’s broader struggles.
