Burnley Fan Banned for Racial Abuse

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Southwell was charged under the Communications Act 2003 for sending an offensive message, pleading guilty in Blackburn Magistrates’ Court in August 2024.

By Robert Mutasi

John Southwell, a 64-year-old Burnley FC fan, has been given a three-year football banning order and fined £608 for racially abusing Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson on social media.

The incident took place in December 2023, following Chelsea’s 2-0 defeat to Everton, when Southwell posted a racist comment on Facebook under a news article about Jackson.

Southwell was charged under the Communications Act 2003 for sending an offensive message, pleading guilty in Blackburn Magistrates’ Court in August 2024.

His sentencing in October included a £345 fine, £85 in prosecution costs, and a £138 victim surcharge, along with the banning order preventing him from attending football matches for three years.

The authorities emphasized that this case serves as a stark reminder that hateful behavior, whether online or in person, will have serious consequences.

John Moran, Senior Crown Prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), stated that “online actions have consequences” and vowed to continue bringing those responsible for racist abuse to justice.

Lancashire Police also welcomed the court’s decision, highlighting their commitment to combating racism in all its forms.

This case adds to the growing concern about racial abuse targeted at Black football players, particularly on social media platforms.

In recent years, Black players in the Premier League and across European leagues have frequently been subjected to vile online abuse.

High-profile players like Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, and Romelu Lukaku have spoken out about the racist messages they receive, calling for stronger measures from social media companies and authorities.

European football has struggled with racism for decades, both on and off the pitch.

While stadium bans and fines have been imposed for discriminatory chants or abuse from fans, the rise of social media has opened new avenues for racial hatred to thrive.

UEFA and FIFA have launched anti-racism campaigns, but incidents persist, reflecting the deep-rooted issues in European football culture.

Southwell’s case represents a significant step toward holding individuals accountable for their actions online, signaling that racial abuse will not be tolerated in any arena of football.

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