Sublime Athletic FC

ALT “We are disappointed that only two weeks into the English football season, we have already seen numerous incidents of discrimination at stadiums up and down the country. The use of the term ‘rent boy’ in chants by a portion of Liverpool fans at Carrow Road was unquestionably homophobic and has no place in our game. We have also had reports of incidents at other games and are awaiting further clarification."

ALT "As always, we thank those who reported these incidents to us, and urge fans to do the same if they witness discrimination of any kind in football in the future. We will continue to liaise with all relevant clubs and the football authorities to identify and hold accountable those responsible.”

ALT Kick It Out is encouraged to hear of the arrests and continued efforts of law enforcement to track down individuals who sent abhorrent racist abuse to England players in the wake of the Euro 2020 final. Alongside stakeholders from across English football, we will work with authorities to ensure the strongest possible action is taken against those responsible. Racism and discrimination cannot be allowed to run unchecked through football or society more widely, and accountability is essential in stemming the spread. So while these arrests will hopefully deter future incidents, reporting acts of racism and discrimination when you see them online or in person, is also invaluable to efforts to bring perpetrators to justice.

ALT This accountability importantly extends to social media companies, who have an obligation to protect users from the vile abuse we saw last month, as well as banning those users that send it. The Government’s Online Safety Bill, which will write this obligation into law, will help massively in that regard. Kick It Out implores the Government to accelerate the passing of this crucial piece of legislation.