Kinsley Boys football players suspended over allegations of abusive comments

A statement from Route One Rovers FC said it condemned the “vile racist, Islamophobic, discriminatory and abusive language” contained within messages reportedly shared in a Kinsley Boys FC players group chat.

These included offensive comments directed towards a wheelchair user on the management team and Islamophobic comments about players, it said.

A spokesperson from the club said: “This is not football banter. This is discrimination, and it is utterly unacceptable.

“Such behaviour has absolutely no place in football or wider society.”

The club said it had also experienced racism last season and thanked the community for its support and solidarity.

Kinsley Boys FC said it was co-operating with the relevant football authorities, including the FA and the Northern Counties East Football League.

A spokesperson for the Northern Counties East Football League confirmed it had received a formal complaint concerning alleged discriminatory comments circulated via a private messaging group.

“The allegations are extremely serious and include claims of racism, religious discrimination, disability discrimination and abusive conduct.

“The matter has been formally recorded and referred to the appropriate authorities for investigation. The NCEL is committed to ensuring that football is inclusive, respectful and welcoming to all,” they said.

Football inclusion charity Kick it Out said it was “appalled” by the reports.

“Discrimination has no place in football at any level, and we stand with everyone affected.

“Our reporting team is aware of the incident and is working with the relevant authorities to ensure it is investigated and that those responsible are held accountable,” a spokesperson said.