Jeff Rueter, writing for [The Athletic](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6173258/2025/03/04/san-diego-fc-fans-chant-homophobic-mls/?source=user_shared_article ‘Proud not loud’? San Diego FC fans’ actions put MLS expansion club to immediate test ):

San Diego FC began its first MLS season on the road, shocking the defending champion LA Galaxy with a 2-0 win. The result sent a message all its own, but it also gave their fans even more reason to look forward to their first match at Snapdragon Stadium on Saturday night. Comparatively, their home debut wasn’t as exciting, with San Diego playing St. Louis City to a scoreless draw. Throughout the match, though, their fans made an unmissable first impression by [adopting one of the sport’s ugliest modern traditions](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6169617/2025/03/02/san-diego-fc-denounces-homophobic-chants/?source=user_shared_article San Diego FC coach, sporting director denounce homophobic chants at inaugural home match ).

If you’ve watched a game involving the Mexico men’s national team, you will likely know what this is about. The chant in question, in which fans shout a Spanish, four-letter homophobic slur at the opposing goalkeeper during his run-up to take a goal kick, has been a staple in Mexican soccer for many years.

Not a great way to start off a franchise.