Fans ‘demanding action’ over abuse and discrimination in football

Football
6 Aug 2025 • 5:51 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Football's anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out recorded a record 1,398 reports of discrimination during the 2024-25 season, an increase from the previous year.
  • The data indicated a rise in sexism, transphobia, and faith-based abuse, while racism continued to be the most reported form of discrimination.
  • Reports of sexism and misogyny saw a significant 67 per cent increase, with a notable rise also observed in youth football.
  • Kick It Out chief executive Samuel Okafor stated that discrimination remains deeply embedded in the game and called for action from football authorities, tech companies, and the government.
  • The charity also urged solidarity for the trans community after English and Scottish football governing bodies banned transgender women from competitive female matches, following a Supreme Court ruling.

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