Following fan’s conviction, Chelsea FC warns fans not to engage in antisemitic abuse
Chelsea Football Club has warned fans not to engage in antisemitic abuse when the team plays Tottenham Hotspur tomorrow. The warning comes after Chelsea fan Fabian Richardson was banned from football grounds for three years and ordered to pay £365 after making 13 Nazi salutes in 15 minutes. Richardson was convicted after being identified by Chelsea.
In a statement ahead of Saturday’s match, Chelsea Football Club said: “A small minority continues to tar this derby with abhorrent antisemitic abuse. It was an isolated incident at last season’s corresponding fixture in May, but an individual who made Nazi-style salutes during the game was reported by a supporter who was able to remain anonymous. Chelsea FC worked with the police to identify the culprit who was recently found guilty in court and received a three-year football banning order and was banned by the club indefinitely. This is a clear example of our belief such behaviour has no place in our stadium or society and of our zero tolerance approach.”
The statement continued: “We encourage reports to be made, we have a sophisticated CCTV system and work with the police to take prompt action on all hate crime. If you hear discriminatory chants during the match, report it to a police officer or steward, or text anonymously to 07894 937 793. Please note the stand, row and seat number of the person, as well as their appearance, height and build.”
We commend Chelsea Football Club for its stance, and for taking robust action against antisemites in conjunction with the police.