Bristol Rovers Football Club is saddened by reports of inappropriate chants and songs at recent fixtures.
Bristol Rovers supporters are the lifeblood of our Club and consistently provide an electric atmosphere at home matches at The Memorial Stadium, as well as an incredible following to every away fixture contested by Matt Taylor’s side.
While the Club does not wish to dampen the energy brought by Gasheads home and away in their passionate support of the team, we are disappointed by reports of chants and songs that include racial undertones, homophobic references and perpetuate outdated stereotypes.
What has become evident is that some people involved in these songs may not recognise the harm such words can cause, or the effect these chants can have on players, coaching staff or fellow match-going supporters. The Club is committed to communicating with our fans on such issues and, where appropriate, educating.
Bristol Rovers Football Club has a duty and responsibility to report any such discriminatory chants and songs, and take action against those engaging in such behaviour. Perpetrators could face stadium bans and possible criminal prosecution.
The Club stands in solidarity with the Kick It Out campaign to fight for equality and eradicate discrimination from our game.
If you encounter discriminatory or anti-social behaviour at a Bristol Rovers fixture, please report it to your nearest steward, the Club at 07451 288910, or to Kick It Out here.
