The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has sanctioned El Salvador for racist abuse directed at Suriname players during the match between the two teams in the CONCACAF qualifiers (North, Central America, and Caribbean) for the 2026 World Cup finals, according to the Salvadoran Football Federation.

The Salvadoran Federation stated in a release that their next match, scheduled for October 11 against Panama, will be held with only 15% of the capacity of the Cuscatlán Stadium, which holds about 45,000 spectators.

Additionally, the Salvadoran Federation was fined $62,715 and will be required to implement a “comprehensive anti-discrimination plan” that must be approved by FIFA.

Underdog Suriname surprised their hosts El Salvador by beating them 2-1 on September 8 in the second round of qualifiers, marking Suriname’s first win over El Salvador since 1968.

Salvadoran fans insulted the opposing players by calling them “black” and “monkeys” during their celebration.

Suriname currently leads Group A with four points, one point ahead of El Salvador.

Only the group leader qualifies directly for the 2026 World Cup finals, to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.