A boys football club has suspended several players following allegations of racist and ableist abuse directed at a rival team.
The controversy centers on messages circulated via WhatsApp after a fixture between Kinsley Boys FC and Route One Rovers FC on Nov. 7.
Route One Rovers FC condemned the “vile racist, Islamophobic, discriminatory and abusive language” contained within the group chat, according to the club.
The reported messages included offensive comments aimed at a wheelchair user on the management team and Islamophobic remarks directed at players.
A spokesperson for Route One Rovers FC stated, “This is not football banter. This is discrimination, and it is utterly unacceptable.”
Kinsley Boys FC confirmed on Friday that it had suspended a number of its players while an investigation is conducted.
The club noted that it is working with the Football Association and the Northern Counties East Football League to ensure the matter is handled thoroughly.
A club representative stated, “The club does not condone discrimination, abusive behaviour or conduct that falls below the standards expected of anyone representing Kinsley Boys FC.”
The Northern Counties East Football League confirmed it received a formal complaint regarding the incident.
A league spokesperson described the allegations as “extremely serious” and noted they include claims of religious and disability discrimination.
The football inclusion charity Kick It Out also responded to the reports.
A spokesperson for the organization said they were “appalled” by the incident and are working with authorities to ensure accountability.
Route One Rovers FC, which previously experienced racism last season, stated that such behavior has no place in the sport or wider society.
Officials from the league and the club maintain their commitment to ensuring that football remains an inclusive and welcoming environment for all participants.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities review the evidence provided by the clubs involved in the match.