West Ham United have warned any supporters alleged to have chanted antisemitic songs on the way to Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham at White Hart Lane will be banned for life if they are found guilty.Anti-discrimination group Kick It Out contacted police after video footage surfaced of a group of apparent West Ham fans singing an antisemitic song on the London Underground. The video appeared on social media and showed a group of fans chanting: “I’ve got a foreskin, how about you? ***** Jew.”
A West Ham United spokesman said: “The club emailed every supporter who had bought a ticket to Sunday’s game to remind them that they were acting as ambassadors for West Ham United.
“If any individual is found to have behaved in an inappropriate way, the club’s simple, zero-tolerance policy dictates that they will face the strongest possible action, including the option of a life ban from the Boleyn Ground.
“If anyone has any information on such behaviour we would urge them to report it to the Club, Kick It Out or the police so it can be investigated thoroughly.”
Simon Johnson, chief executive of the Jewish Leadership Council, told the Guardian that he would like to see the club follow through on that promise if any are found to have been involved.
“Any form of antisemitism is racism and therefore I support Kick It Out in their call for this matter to be investigated with the same vigour and determination as last week’s incidents with the Chelsea fans are being investigated,” he said.
In the buildup to the match the club had reminded fans attending the game at White Hart Lane of their “zero tolerance policy towards any form of discriminatory behaviour”.
“We would also like to remind all fans attending the match at White Hart Lane that they will be acting as ambassadors for West Ham United and their behaviour should reflect the values and standards of our club,” read the letter which was sent to fans ahead of the game.
“Working with the Metropolitan Police, the Club will continue to adopt a zero tolerance policy towards any form of discriminatory behaviour and any fan found to be acting inappropriately - including racist, antisemitic and homophobic behaviour - will be punished to the full extent of the law and banned from attending matches.
“We are rightly proud of our world-famous support home and away and we look forward to the famous Claret and Blue Army once again getting behind the team with all their heart and showing the world that following the Hammers means supporting with pride, passion and respect.
Kick it Out said in a statement: “Kick It Out has received several reports via social media about the footage and will be liaising with British Transport Police on the matter. In addition, we have been informed of a number of antisemitic tweets which we are reporting to the police.”
Meanwhile, Brighton’s 4-3 home win against Birmingham City was overshadowed when two fans were arrested for racist chanting and throwing a smoke bomb.
By Ed Aarons, Guardian
