San Diego FC set to unveil 'detailed plan' to combat homophobic chants held in home opener

San Diego FC have once again condemned the chanting heard during their scoreless draw with St. Louis City while outlining a plan to discourage fans from participating. Shortly after the match, head coach Mikey Varas and technical director Tyler Heaps swiftly condemned the chant.

"I just want to make very clear that it has no place here," Varas said on Saturday. "If they're going to continue to come to the game and make that chant, it's better that they don't come here."

On Monday, the club confirmed that it was taking steps to ensure it would be eradicated from future home matches at Snapdragon Stadium.

"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 club said in a joint statement from ownership and management. "The sport of football brings people together and in San Diego that inclusive spirit thrives. 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. We are committed to fostering an environment where all fans, players, and staff feel safe and welcome. We will take immediate steps to address this behavior and will communicate a detailed plan prior to the next home match."

The one-word Spanish-language slur has often been used during goalkicks and has long been a problem, in particular, in games involving Mexico's national team. Both CONCACAF and the Mexican Federation have taken measures towards eliminating the chant, with a plan put in place to suspend matches where it persists. Mexico has also been fined repeatedly by FIFA for the chant, which has continued to force stoppages in matches.

The chat has largely been avoided in MLS, although it was heard on at least three occasions during San Diego's opener.

San Diego will play away from home this weekend as they visit Real Salt Lake. Their next home match will come on March 15 when they play host to the Columbus Crew.