Soccer fan gets ban after race abuse at game
AFOOTBALL fan from Accrington has been hit with an indefinite ban by Burnley Football club following an incident of racial abuse during a pre-season friendly game.
The 30-year-old supporter has been barred from attending Clarets matches both home and away after comments aimed at a Bradford City player.
Police confirmed they are also investigating the incident, which took place during a pre-season match at Valley Parade on Saturday, July 23, when a Bradford player informed match officials that he was being subjected to racial abuse.
That led to a fan being ejected from the ground and also prompted Burnley striker Andre Gray to write on Twitter that the fan was living in the ‘stone ages’. ”
Burnley had issued a statement on Sunday apologising to Bradford following the game and have now confirmed they have stopped a supporter from going to their games.
A statement on the club’s website said: “Burnley Football Club can confirm that a supporter has been given an indefinite club ban following an incident of racial abuse.
“A 30-year-old man from Accrington has been interviewed by Burnley FC officials regarding racial comments aimed at a Bradford City player during the Clarets’ preseason friendly at the Northern Commercials Stadium on Saturday, July 23, 2016.
“And as a result, and subject to the right to appeal, the supporter will no longer be able to attend any Burnley FC matches, including away games, with immediate effect.
“A second man who voluntarily left the stadium in connection with the incident will face no action.
“An investigation is still ongoing by West Yorkshire Police, but Burnley Football Club would like to thank Bradford City Football Club and West Yorkshire Police for their assistance in this matter.
“In closing, the club would like to reiterate that we have a zero tolerance approach to any such behaviour and strongly condemn discrimination of any type.”
Superintendent Damien Miller, of Bradford District Police, confirmed a report was made to West Yorkshire Police.
He said: “Investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the incident and West Yorkshire Police has been in touch with both clubs.
“The force take all reports of racist abuse and hate incidents extremely seriously and the appropriate action where necessary will be taken.”