San Diego FC announced its plan to ban the discriminatory chants that occurred during the club’s Inaugural Home Match with in-stadium signage, a pre-match message from key club members and the ejection of any fan that stadium security identifies as said the chant, according to a press release.

The homophobic chant that’s been heard from fans at FIFA matches of the Mexican and Spanish national teams during the goal kick was heard in the final minutes of San Diego’s home opener against St. Louis CITY SC on March 1. The chant was done three separate times and a message on the jumbotron told fans to stop immediately.

Major League Soccer implemented FIFA’s three-step protocol last year for all MLS matches, according to a May 2024 press release, although it was not used in SDFC’s first home match.

It allows match officials to stop the match until discriminatory acts in the stands stop. If it continues, they have the power to suspend the match for 5-10 minutes or to abandon the match altogether if it still continues.

A “Know Before You Go” newsletter will be sent to all ticket holders, and a flyer will be placed in each seat cup holder with a message saying ““Aquí No” / “Not Here.” to make sure every fan knows beforehand not to take part in the chant.

SDFC CEO Tom Penn, head coach Mikey Varas, midfielder Aníbal Godoy and Supporters’ Union leadership will offer messages warning against the use of the chants before the match.

In addition, a banner will be displayed in the supporters’ section and additional security will be added in key positions that includes the opposing goalkeeper’s goal. “Offenders will be identified, ejected and may face additional sanctions,” the press release said.

With a still-unbeaten record, SDFC will host the Columbus Crew for their second-ever home match on Saturday, March 15 at 7:30 p.m. PT.