Police investigating claims Bradford players were racially abused by fan during pre-season friendly against Chesterfield
AN investigation has been opened after Bradford players were allegedly on the receiving end of racist abuse during a friendly game at Chesterfield.
The Sky Bet League Two club lost 3-0 to their non-league opponents but the game was halted during the first half after some City substitutes heard discriminatory remarks.
A spectator in the home stand was subsequently asked to leave the Technique Stadium.
Bradford chief executive Ryan Sparks is confident strong action will take place as the incident was formally reported to the match officials following the match.
He told the official club website: “I spoke at length last night with the players subjected to the disgusting slurs from a spectator in the home stand.
“We understand Derbyshire Police are investigating the situation, and we will assist accordingly.
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“I would like to thank Chesterfield’s chief executive, John Croot, who has been extremely supportive since the incident.
“I am confident the individual will face the strongest-possible consequences, as a result of his repulsive actions.
“These events are a reminder of the amount of work that still needs to be done, in order to remove this kind of behaviour from society.
“There is absolutely no place for it, and we will continue to do everything in our power to protect any member of our staff from discrimination.
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“Our players have our full support, and we stand shoulder to shoulder with them in collective attempts to eradicate all forms of discrimination.”
Chesterfield confirmed a supporter left the match during a break in play.
A club statement read: “After being made aware of the alleged comment, stewards and police officers spoke to the fan in question, who denied the accusation and left voluntarily.”
“Witness statements have been taken as part of an investigation and, if necessary, appropriate action will be taken.
“Our club and Community Trust does a lot of work around anti-racism and racist comments at our stadium will not be tolerated.”