Newport County warn fans over racist abuse, pyrotechnics and violence

Newport County have condemned what the club calls unacceptable supporter behaviour this season, citing allegations of racist and homophobic abuse, pyrotechnics, pitch incursions, thrown objects and violence. The club published its statement on Monday 9 November.

What the club listed

The incidents include allegations of discriminatory abuse, reports of racist and homophobic comments, the use of pyrotechnics, pitch incursions, the throwing of objects towards participants and violence involving supporters. The club says the incidents happened at both home and away fixtures involving Newport fans. A number of the matters have been referred to the appropriate football and regulatory authorities.

The cost to the club

County say the club has had to commit extra resources to stewarding, security, crowd management measures, investigations and preventative initiatives. The club also warns of possible disciplinary action and financial sanctions if football authorities decide supporter behaviour breached competition rules, and says that could affect relationships with governing bodies, sponsors and community partners.

What happens next

The club says it will work with the Football Association, the EFL, Gwent Police and other agencies to establish the facts and help identify those involved. Anyone found to have broken football regulations or the law can expect stadium bans, Football Banning Orders and criminal prosecution.

County stressed that the great majority of supporters behave with passion and respect, and said the actions of a small minority do not reflect the club. It asked every supporter to help keep Rodney Parade a place where everyone can enjoy football.