Wednesday night’s York City Football Club home pre-season friendly against Salford City was suddenly cut short. This decision followed reports of racial abuse being aimed at Salford City players. The event occurred over the weekend, mid-match at the LNER Community Stadium. The teams were officially 3-3 when the game was suspended.
In the closing moments of the game, Salford City manager Karl Robinson made a bold move. He walked his players off the pitch after informing them that some of them had, indeed, been subjected to the vile practice of racial abuse. Facing increasingly elevated threats and harassment, this decision was made in order to protect the safety and well-being of the team members.
Both clubs have taken a stand against racism, in every form. York City Football Club expressed its horror at the allegations, stating, “York City Football Club are horrified to learn of allegations of racial abuse aimed at Salford City players in this evening’s pre-season match.” Salford City released an indignant statement. They highlighted their ongoing pledge to keep players and personnel free from all types of discriminatory conduct.
“Salford City condemns racism in all forms, will always protect and defend its players and staff from any form of behaviour of this kind, and condemns this evening’s behaviour in the strongest possible terms.” – Salford City
North Yorkshire Police have said they are fully investigating the allegations. At this time police have arrested a 23-year-old man in connection with the arson. The police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward to help their investigation.
York City Football Club continues to liaise closely with North Yorkshire Police. They have said they are determined to understand in detail what happened during the course of the match. Since then, both clubs have expressed gratitude to one another for their rapid response to the emerging details. Together, we are more united than ever in our determination to stand against racism.
This cancellation of such a friendly match highlights the ongoing issue of racial abuse in sports. It shines a spotlight on the importance of making sport inclusive and safe for everyone – regardless of their gender identity, expression or sexual orientation.
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