Gillingham Fan Banned for Life Over Racist Gesture at Newport Match
A shocking moment marred Gillingham’s clash with Newport County as a home supporter was arrested and slapped with a lifetime ban from Priestfield Stadium after making a racist monkey gesture.
The ugly act came during Newport’s 2-0 League Two win when striker Omar Bogle netted a penalty. The fan crudely imitated a monkey after Bogle scored, sparking outrage among players and fans alike.
Players Condemn Fans’ Racist Act
Bogle celebrated his goal in front of the home crowd, but his teammates quickly surrounded the offending fan, apparently confronting him over the disgusting behaviour.
Gillingham’s director of operations, Joe Comper, slammed the incident on social media:
“Disgusting from one individual in the Rainham End. Arrested, and a lifetime ban from Priestfield was issued. I can’t thank the large number of fans from around the stadium who are clearly as enraged as us. We really appreciate your support.”
Match referee Tom Reeves was seen chatting with Bogle and Newport captain Ryan Delaney before informing Gillingham’s managers Keith Millen and Graham Coughlan about the incident.
Gillingham’s Troubling History With Racism
This incident is the latest black mark on Gillingham’s record. Back in September, the club was hit with a hefty £12,500 fine by the Football Association after racist and sexist chanting by their fans.
The FA’s official statement laid bare the vile abuse:
“The racist abuse hurled and chanted during the Colchester match was vile. The sexist abuse levelled at the female physiotherapist during the Sutton match is as bad as the commission has seen, and the chanting that took place at that match was repeated during the Wimbledon match.”
Gillingham responded firmly, stressing zero tolerance:
“Chanting of this nature is unacceptable. Furthermore, there is no place for any manner of discriminatory, offensive, or abusive behaviour or the language of any kind inside our ground.”
Tackling Racism in Football: Gillingham Takes Action
The club is now drawing up an action plan to make sure such disgraceful behaviour does not happen again at Priestfield.
This appalling episode highlights the persistent fight against racism in football, sending a clear warning that offenders will face serious consequences.
