This archive report was first published on 2 January 2020.
On New Year's Day, a 1-1 draw between Brighton and Hove Albion and Chelsea was marred by three separate incidents of alleged abuse. (Courtesy)
According to a statement from Brighton, two home supporters were ejected from the stadium for alleged racist and homophobic abuse. One Chelsea fan was also ejected for homophobic abuse aimed at home fans.
Chief executive and deputy chairman Paul Barber expressed his disappointment at the incidents, saying, “Yet again our safety and stewarding team, along with Sussex Police, have had to deal with three separate and unwanted instances of disgusting racist and homophobic abuse.”
Barber questioned whether the courts should have the power to hand out more severe punishments for such incidents, stating, “If the prospect of a life ban from watching their clubs play football isn’t a strong enough deterrent, we have to ask the question as to whether the courts should be given the power to hand out more severe punishments?”
Barber emphasized that neither Brighton & Hove Albion nor the wider football community will tolerate racism, homophobia, or any other form of discrimination at any time.
These incidents follow a similar incident at a Brighton match last month, where two Wolves fans were arrested on suspicion of homophobic abuse. Chelsea's recent clash with Tottenham was also marred by alleged racist abuse directed at Antonio Rudiger.
