Jeremy Corbyn has condemned the “disgusting” spectacle of football fans appearing to give Nazi salutes and make racist gestures at the Emirates Stadium last night.
Footage circulating on social media shows a minority of Valencia fans making obscene gestures during their clubs 3-1 defeat to Arsenal in the Europa League semi-final tie last night.
An investigation is expected to be launched by UEFA, the administrative body that runs the competition – and Kick It Out, the campaign established to eradicate racism from football, was quick to condemn the shocking behaviour.
Islington North MP Jeremy Corbyn told the Gazette: “There is no place for racism in football or anywhere in society. Racism is utterly wrong and disgusting, and it sickens me to see football fans target players based on he colour of their skin and their religion.
“We must to do everything we can to end racism and support players who safer at the hands of racists. That’s why I wholeheartedly support the No Room for Racism campaign and the efforts made by some of the country’s best players, like Raheem Sterling, to help people understand the extent of racism in the game and how, together, we can stop it.”
In a post published to its twitter account earlier today, it stated: “These blatant racist gestures are shocking and inexcusable.
“We hope the relevant authorities identify the perpetrators and take the strongest possible punishment.
“There is no place for any form of discrimination in football or society.”
A spokesperson for Arsenal FC added: “We are working with Valencia on this. We utterly condemn such behaviour. It has no place in society or football. We continue to encourage fans to report incidents and to provide witness statements so effective action can be taken.”
A Met Police spokesperson said: “We are aware of a video circulating online in which it appears fans are carrying out offensive behaviour during the Arsenal v Valencia football match at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday, 2 May.
“No reports have been made to police at this time however the footage is in the process of being reviewed.”
No arrests have been made. Police are investigating.
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