MLS's San Diego vows to tackle homophobic chanting

Major League Soccer's newest club, San Diego FC, say they will take action to stop homophobic chanting after a taunt used in Mexican football blighted their first ever home game.

San Diego drew 0-0 at home to St Louis City FC at their Snapdragon Stadium on Saturday but the one-word chant was heard several times throughout the match.

Mexico's national team has been fined several times by FIFA over the same chant which has also been an issue in Mexican club games.

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The club posted messages during the game warning supporters that the chants were "offensive" and adding that "discrimination has no place in our sport and in our stadiums and will not be tolerated."

On Monday, the club issued a statement saying they would be taking action to deal with the problem.

"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 sport of football brings people together and in San Diego that inclusive spirit thrives," the club said.

"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 behaviour and will communicate a detailed plan prior to the next home match," they concluded.

Coach Mikey Varas said that the chants had not come from the organized supporters groups but fans elsewhere in the ground.

"This came from more the general population in the seats, and it wasn't everybody," Varas told reporters after the game.

"I understand that, but it was enough people, and I just want to make very clear that it has no place here. If they’re going to continue to come to the game and make that chant, it’s better that they don’t come here," he said.