• Supporters were reported by anti-discrimination group Fare • Brazil also appear to have avoided sanctions for chants

This article is more than 6 years old

This article is more than 6 years old

Mexico have been cleared by Fifa of improper conduct by their fans following complaints that they used homophobic chants.

The fans’ shouts of “puto” are commonplace in Mexican football when the opposing goalkeeper takes a goal-kick but the anti-discrimination group Fare reported the chants to Fifa on the basis that they used homophobic language.

The Mexican FA was charged with improper conduct but has been cleared.

A Fifa spokeswoman said: “Disciplinary proceedings were opened against Mexico for improper conduct of spectators during the match, Mexico v Cameroon.

“The Fifa disciplinary committee has decided that the incident in question is not considered insulting in this specific contest. All charges against the Mexican FA have been dismissed.”

Fare also reported Brazilian fans for similar chants and it appears there will be no action against the host nation either.

A statement from Fare said the decision regarding Mexico contradicted expert advice.

A spokesperson said: “If the decision is that the use of the word puto is not homophobic then this is disappointing and contradicts the expert advice of the Mexican government’s own anti-discrimination body Conapred and numerous other experts.

“Independent academics that we have taken the time to consult also confirm what many football fans in South America have known for a long time.

“A genuine zero tolerance approach to all forms of discrimination will mean that Fifa will need to take some difficult decisions. In the longer term it is the only way to set out clear leadership and deal with a real issue in football.”