Brentford FC Issue Life Ban for Racist Social Media Posting

Fan agrees to work with Marcus Gayle for chance of a review

Brentford's new stadium

A Brentford FC supporter has been given a life ban from all of the club’s games after a video was posted on social media containing a racist comment and what has been described as extremely offensive language.

The material, which appeared on 14 September, was brought to the club’s attention and a quick investigation was carried out. The Club met with the individual on Thursday 17 September represented by Club Director Nity Raj and Club Ambassador Marcus Gayle, among others.

The fan, who the club have chosen not to name, has been informed that he has been banned for life from attending Brentford FC matches. His Season Ticket for the new stadium has been cancelled and he has been told he will not be permitted to watch any Brentford FC side at any venue. He has, however, agreed to undergo a period of rehabilitation, including working with Marcus Gayle. The Club has agreed to review this life ban three years after fans are first admitted to our new home, subject to the rehabilitation programme being completed and significant evidence of a change in behaviour.

In a statement on the matter Brentford FC said, “We have a zero-tolerance policy towards discriminatory language, abuse, chanting and behaviour of any kind. It is vital that our community of fans, present and future, understand that we will not tolerate racism and discrimination.

“We find hateful behaviour based on any form of discrimination abhorrent and wholly unacceptable. We are a fully inclusive Club, and in alignment with our #BeeTogether values are committed to eradicating any form of discrimination. We will continue to collaborate with Kick It Out and others to develop and implement anti-discrimination processes and practices, including both sanctions and education programmes where appropriate.”

The clubs says it will continue to collaborate with Kick It Out and others to develop and implement anti-discrimination processes and practices, including both sanctions and education programmes where appropriate.

September 18, 2020