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Police investigate Nottingham Forest homophobic abuse

Nottinghamshire Police are working with Nottingham Forest to investigate reports of homophobic abuse during the club’s 3-2 loss at home to Brighton and Hove Albion last month.

Officers have released photos of three individuals who they suspect of directing homophobic language towards Brighton players and supporters at the City Ground on Saturday 25 November.

A shot of Nottingham Forest fans at the City Ground
Nottingham Forest fans watch on at the City Ground. Note: This is not the image released by police. | Photo: Icon Sport

What did the police say about the homophobic abuse?

Dedicated football officer PC Simon Travell said: “We are liaising with Nottingham Forest Football Club and working hard to gather evidence and identify those responsible for this unacceptable behaviour.

“We will not tolerate hate in any of its forms and we continue to work hard to tackle it, with the support of our partner agencies across the county. To help us with our ongoing inquiries I’d encourage anyone who recognises any of the men pictured in these images to please get in contact with us.”

This news comes after two Nottingham Forest fans were arrested for alleged homophobic chanting during the club’s 1-0 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in September.

What was Nottingham Forest's response?

Following the more recent example of homophobic abuse against Brighton, Forest were quick to condemn the actions of a minority of supporters.

They posted the following statement on X, formerly Twitter: “Following Saturday’s Premier League fixture against Brighton and Hove Albion, we have been made aware of some homophobic language aimed towards Brighton players and supporters from a minority of our fans.

“Homophobia, like all other forms of discrimination, has no place in football or society, and anyone engaging in discriminatory behaviour is committing a criminal offence. We are actively working with Nottinghamshire Police to identify the individuals involved, and they will be dealt with appropriately.

“We would like to thank all our supporters who reported incidents. Nottingham Forest is committed to creating an inclusive environment which embraces and celebrates our differences. We want everyone who attends our stadium to have a positive experience.”

Have other Premier League clubs been charged for homophobic chanting this year?

Leeds United and Luton Town have been fined this year for homophobic chanting directed at Brighton in March and August respectively.

Following measures introduced by the Premier League in August 2021, supporters who are found to have been discriminatory or abusive can be permanently banned from all Premier League matches.

Avatar of Jamie Barton

Jamie Barton

A freelance football writer and podcaster, Jamie has appeared on/in the BBC World Service, PA Media, Charlton Athletic FC and Empire of the Kop, among others. He's attended matches all around the world, from Tranmere to Tokyo, and once had his bus home from the 2022 Champions League final in Paris delayed by 28 hours.

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