The slur was “puto” , a Spanish anti-gay chant long used by some Mexico fans during goalkeeper goal kicks.

Context

It has repeatedly triggered FIFA investigations and fines because it is widely treated as discriminatory, even though some fans argue they use it as a taunt rather than to express hate.

What it means

In the reports, the chant is described as literally meaning “male prostitute” in Spanish and also functioning as a homophobic insult in this stadium context.

Why it keeps coming up

The chant has been part of Mexico match controversy for years, which is why it often resurfaces in coverage whenever fans repeat it at major tournaments.