Hull City 0-4 Chelsea: Fan Group Condemns homophobic chanting

In a stark reminder of the battles still faced within the sport, a fan group has branded homophobic chanting witnessed during the FA Cup fourth-round match between Hull City and Chelsea as a “stain on our game”. The incident unfolded on February 13, 2026, at Hull City’s MKM Stadium, where four men were arrested for their involvement in the offensive chanting.

Key Highlights

• Four arrests made for offensive chanting during Hull vs. Chelsea match.
• Police confirm ongoing investigations into reported assaults.
• Hull City commits to zero tolerance on discriminatory behavior.
• Chelsea Pride group decries the persistence of homophobia in football.

As the match progressed, stewards issued warnings over the PA system, alerting fans to cease the discriminatory chants, while CCTV footage was actively monitored for further incidents. An announcement displayed on screens within the stadium highlighted the unacceptable nature of the behavior, urging fans to stop immediately.

Following the match, Humberside Police reported that three men aged 21, 24, and 45 are currently under investigation, while a fourth 21-year-old man was released without charge. Additionally, officers responded to reports of a steward being assaulted, leading to the arrest of a 54-year-old man. The police’s ongoing investigations also include a separate incident involving a bottle thrown onto the concourse during the game.

Hull City is taking a firm stance against such behavior, reiterating that any form of homophobic, racist, or discriminatory chanting is entirely unacceptable. In their statement, the club emphasized that supporters engaging in such actions will face serious consequences, including ejection from the stadium, potential banning orders, and even criminal prosecution.

In response to the events, Chelsea Pride, the club’s LGBTQ+ supporter group, expressed their outrage, stating: “Homophobic chanting directed at our supporters is utterly unacceptable. We acknowledge the measures taken by Hull City, including stadium announcements and arrests made, but it is disheartening that such chants still echo in 2026. This is a stain on our game.”

Despite Chelsea’s dominant performance, winning the match 4-0 and progressing to the fifth round, the attention has shifted away from the pitch. Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior noted he was unaware of the chants during the match, focusing solely on the game. However, he condemned any discriminatory language, stressing that such behavior should not be tolerated in football.

Meanwhile, Hull City manager Sergej Jakirovic commented on the need for a respectful environment: “This is not a place for discriminatory behavior, either in the stadium or in public. We must foster a safe and inclusive atmosphere for all fans.” The events of this match have sparked discussions about the ongoing challenges faced in eradicating discrimination from football, and the commitment required from all stakeholders to foster a more inclusive sport.

FAQs

• What actions were taken against the fans involved in chanting?
  Four individuals were arrested, and investigations are ongoing into their actions and other related incidents.
• What is Hull City’s stance on discriminatory behavior?
  Hull City has stated that any form of discriminatory chanting is unacceptable and will face serious consequences.
• How did Chelsea Pride respond to the chanting?
  Chelsea Pride condemned the homophobic chanting as unacceptable and highlighted the need for accountability in football.
• What did the police report about the match incidents?
  The police confirmed ongoing investigations into multiple incidents, including assaults on stewards and thrown objects during the match.

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