Officials at FIFA have ruled that England’s popular chant of “Eng-ger-land” contravenes guidelines outlined in a recent report regarding “Crowd Behaviour and International Relations”.
Following a recent clampdown on divisive elements within sport, Jim Meddler, the Head of Unification and Cultural Cohesion at the governing body, explained the reasons behind the decision. “Having looked closely at the details of what English fans are singing and chanting during international fixtures, we were concerned that the phrase ‘Eng-ger-land’ was too lengthy in its composition, too complicated in it comprehension and too patriotic in it’s conception” he said. “Our feeling here at FIFA is that all national songs need to be more inclusive and sensitive to the feelings of the opposition. As such, we’re recommending that no chant be longer than 2 syllables and, where possible, no reference to a particular country or territory is mentioned”. He explained.
Chiefs at the FA are said to be accepting of the governing body’s guidelines and, as such, are understood to be working on some replacement phrases for England fans.
Details of the new song lyrics and chants are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
