Crawley Town Takes Strong Stance Against Antisemitism: Lifetime Ban for Offender

Crawley Town Football Club has made headlines with their decisive action against hate speech, announcing plans for a lifetime stadium ban against a fan who exhibited antisemitic behavior during a recent fans' forum. This incident, which targeted one of the club's Jewish owners, is a serious violation of the values that the club stands for.

During the forum, hosted by owner Preston Johnson and other board members, several attendees reported witnessing the individual making derogatory remarks and gestures that were clearly unacceptable. The club stated that it had reviewed video footage and confirmed the disturbing reports, emphasizing that such actions have no place in football.

In their official statement, Crawley Town asserted:

"These actions are an unacceptable violation of our community's values. They have no place in our club or our sport, and we take them extremely seriously."

The club's response includes not only the lifetime ban but also a referral to local law enforcement for further investigation and appropriate legal actions. Crawley Town has expressed sincere apologies to any supporters who may have been affected by this incident, emphasizing their commitment to creating a welcoming environment for fans of all backgrounds.

Johnson, part of the WAGMI United ownership group that acquired the club in 2022, remains dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusivity at Crawley. He previously stepped back from his co-chairman role but has since returned, actively engaging with supporters as the team battles to avoid relegation in League One, sitting currently at 22nd place, just six points from safety.

In navigating these challenging times, Crawley Town stands firm in their vision for a diverse and respectful club culture, sending a clear message that hate will not be tolerated.

As they move forward, the club hopes to unite their fans in support of the team's return to form both on and off the pitch, adhering to the idea that football should be a game for everyone, free from discrimination and hatred.