Rise of Anti-Immigration Abuse in English Football Matches
Recent data from Kick It Out highlights a troubling rise in anti-immigration sentiment during English football matches. Last season, there were 39 incidents reported involving anti-immigrant chants directed at anti-discrimination charities, surpassing the combined total of the previous two seasons. Phrases like “stop the boat” and “turn back” were reportedly echoed at various levels of the game, demonstrating a concerning trend of discriminatory mass chants.
Increase in Discriminatory Reports During Matches
This surge in anti-immigrant rhetoric aligns with a broader increase in reports of discrimination both at matches and online. Kick It Out documented a record 1,744 instances of discriminatory conduct during the 2025-26 season, marking a 25% rise compared to the previous year. This troubling statistic reflects a sharpened focus on addressing issues within the sport.
Discrimination Incidents Reach All-Time High
The rise in reported incidents spans all forms of discrimination. The most significant jump was in racial discrimination, which saw a 19% increase, totaling 792 reports—45% of all incidents. Complaints about sexist behavior rose by 12% to 216 cases, while homophobic incidents soared by 46% to 203. Additionally, reports of antisemitism, disability discrimination, and Islamophobia increased by 43%, 20%, and 88%, respectively. These figures indicate that the highest number of cases in the last five years has been recorded across all six categories.
Grassroots Football Sees Continued Abuse
Reports of abuse in grassroots football have risen for the fifth consecutive year, with incidents increasing by 33% from 2025 to 2026, culminating in a record 248 cases. Match officials have not been spared, as 98 reports of abuse were filed, equating to the total for the previous three seasons combined. This uptick underscores the pervasive nature of discrimination in the sport.
Industry Leaders Call for Action
Kick It Out chief executive Samuel Okafor emphasized that the behavior witnessed during matches and online reflects a wider surge in hate speech seen in British society. However, he commended the growing willingness among supporters and players to confront such behavior. “These figures illustrate that discrimination remains deeply entrenched within the game,” Okafor noted. He acknowledged the increasing number of individuals prepared to challenge abuse they witness, highlighting the commendable example set by professional players last season.
Examples of Abuse and Legal Consequences
Significant incidents have garnered media attention, such as the suspended sentence given to a 60-year-old man who sent offensive messages to England defender Jess Carter during the European Championships. In the men’s league, Antoine Semenyo has drawn attention to the racial abuse he experienced throughout the season, with legal proceedings set to begin in September against charges of racially aggravated assault.
Calls for Improved Reporting and Support
Kick It Out’s findings echo a report from the British Football Police Service, which noted that misogynistic abuse was recently classified as a distinct form of discrimination. This classification has contributed to some of the reported increases, alongside enhancements in reporting mechanisms. Both organizations are urging online platforms to enhance their efforts in curbing abuse. Okafor reaffirmed the commitment to collaboration with football authorities, clubs, leagues, regulators, and governments to ensure that reporting of abuse is met with decisive and transparent action, guaranteeing that football remains welcoming to all.
