BRIGHTON have confirmed three supporters were arrested for racial and homophobic abuse during the New Year’s Day clash with Chelsea.
The Seagulls came from a behind against the Blues to earn a point as Alireza Jahanbakhsh’s spectacular bicycle kick secured a 1-1 draw.
However, the Premier League showdown was marred by a trio of unsavoury incidents at The Amex.
A Brighton statement confirmed: “Yet again it is with regret that we report the ejection of two home supporters – one for racist abuse of Chelsea players and one for homophobic abuse aimed at Chelsea supporters.
“One visiting supporter was also ejected by club stewards for homophobic abuse aimed at home supporters.
“All three were arrested by Sussex police outside the stadium and now face prosecution.”
Brighton’s chief executive and deputy chairman, Paul Barber, said: “If the prospect of a life ban from watching their clubs play football isn’t a strong enough deterrent, we have to ask the question as to whether the courts should be given the power to hand out more severe punishments.
“Football can only do so much, and we are sick and tired of the game’s reputation being tarnished by these people.
“I find it impossible to comprehend how and why some individuals think it’s acceptable to behave in this way, and yet again I will make it very clear that neither Brighton & Hove Albion nor the wider football community will tolerate racism, homophobia, or any other form of discrimination at any time.”
He added: “We would urge any fans confronted with similar discriminatory behaviour at our stadium to report it immediately, either directly to a steward or via our anonymous hotline, and we will continue to take the strongest possible action against such bigoted individuals.
“These people are not welcome at the Amex or at any football matches.”
Incidents of racial abuse seem to be on the rise with Manchester United midfielder Fred subjected to monkey gestures in the recent derby win over City.
The FA Cup match between Haringey Borough and Yeovil Town was abandoned after reports of racism in the stands in October.
That same month Gareth Southgate’s England team faced Nazi salutes and monkey chants from the home crowd in Bulgaria during their Euro 2020 qualifier.
And Chelsea’s Antonio Rudiger was allegedly subjected to racist abuse by home fans during his side’s victory at Tottenham on December 22.
