Children’s football match marred by antisemitism
A children’s football match just north of London has been marred by allegations of antisemitism.
Following a 4-3 win against a Jewish children’s football team in a Hertfordshire Football Association fixture on Sunday, a player on the winning team posted a message on social media saying “Hitler would be proud” of his team’s victory and noted their “4-3 win against some random Jews.”
The father of the teenage player has reportedly sent an apology, and the boy may attend antisemitism awareness training.
It is understood that Herts FA has been informed of the incident, and the police have been made aware.
Hertfordshire FA said in a statement: “We are aware of an incident involving antisemitic abuse that occurred following a match over the weekend. A full investigation has been opened and the affected club has been offered assistance via Sporting Chance who provide dedicated support to victims of discrimination. We’re clear that discrimination has no place in football, whether on the pitch, at the training ground, in the stands or online. If you witness unacceptable behaviour in football, please tell us about it so that we can deal with it accordingly.”
Campaign Against Antisemitism continues to report on and act against instances of anti-Jewish racism in all sports.