Argentina Facing Possible Sanction Over Brazil’s Complaint of Racist Chants

Argentina’s national team could be hit with another disciplinary action if Brazil's football federation (CBF) moves forward with a formal complaint to FIFA. Following Argentina’s 4-1 win over Brazil in March at Estadio Monumental, CBF is reportedly considering legal steps due to xenophobic and racist behavior by fans in the stands.

As detailed by Argentine media, the CBF claims to have video evidence recorded by a Brazilian supporter showing an Argentine fan making monkey gestures, among other offensive acts. This footage would serve as key evidence in their case against the Argentine Football Association (AFA).

Should FIFA find the complaint valid and determine that the AFA is a repeat offender, Argentina could be forced to play its next home World Cup qualifier — against Colombia in June — behind closed doors.

Argentina has previously faced FIFA sanctions for fan misconduct. A match against Chile saw a 50% stadium capacity reduction — later lowered to 25% on appeal — due to discriminatory chants, a delayed start against Ecuador, and pitch invasions against Uruguay and Brazil.

In its previous ruling, FIFA’s Appeals Committee explicitly warned that repeated incidents would result in harsher penalties. A potential stadium ban would be a significant blow to Lionel Scaloni’s side in the ongoing qualifiers.