Television network Univision criticises use of homophobic language at World Cup
Spanish language television network Univision has made its stance against homophobic language being used at World Cup matches clear.
The network released a statement on Sunday, at the same time Mexico faced the Netherlands in the competiton.
The team’s fans had been criticized previously for repeatedly screaming the anti-gay slur ‘puto’ (‘male prostitute/faggot’) in their matches against Cameroon and Croatia.
The statement read: “We recognize that during the game there may be language, or chants, from some fans that are offensive to some members of our television audience. …[W]e do not, in any case, condone or endorse the use of such language. Univision Communications supports a World Cup that is inclusive, one that celebrates the diversity of the sport we love and can be enjoyed by all — absent what can be the hurtful consequences of certain words.”
Mexico was knocked out of the competition.
Mexico coach Miguel Herrera had previously defended the use of the slur, claiming “it’s not that bad”.
