Suriname Plans to Lodge Racism Complaint with FIFA and CONCACAF

The Suriname Football Association (SVB) announced that it will lodge a formal complaint with FIFA and CONCACAF regarding racist abuse directed at its national team during a World Cup qualifier against El Salvador at Estadio Cuscatlán in San Salvador on September 8. Suriname won the match 2-1.

According to the SVB, players, coaching staff, and officials faced discriminatory chants and racial slurs from parts of the local crowd. “Such behavior is unacceptable in football and society. It goes against the values of fair play and respect that are vital in international sport,” the association stated from Paramaribo.

SVB president Dayasankar Mathoera commended the team’s actions during this difficult situation. “We appreciate the professionalism and strength shown by our players and staff, who achieved a historic win despite the challenges. Their performance demonstrates dignity and unity,” he said.

The Surinamese federation plans to seek disciplinary action against El Salvador’s football association and urged FIFA and CONCACAF to enforce their zero-tolerance stance on racism. It also thanked fans and regional football communities for their support while encouraging Suriname’s supporters to stay positive and focused on the World Cup journey.