Wolves first club to be sanctioned by FA for homophobic chant

Wolves have been hit with a six-figure fine by the FA after a supporters chant during their fixture against Chelsea in April.

The Molineux outfit are the first club to be sanctioned by the FA solely over the homophobic chant of ‘Chelsea rent boy’.

A statement from the FA, released in January, confirmed that clubs could now be charged with disciplinary action if their fans engage in discriminatory behaviour, including the use of the term ‘rent boy’.

Six-figure fine for Wolves

The Midlands club have been fined $131,000 and issued an 11-point action plan as their reaction and response to the homophobic chanting was deemed inadequate.

In its reasons for the charges, an Independent Regulatory Commission said a public announcement made 10 minutes after the chanting was heard was “weak” and the lack of a reaction from matchday stewards at the ground was also condemned.

Wolves respond

In their response on their official website, a Wolves statement said the following: “We will continue to campaign for inclusivity in football and society and to tackle discriminatory abuse whether inside stadiums or online.

“Furthermore, Wolves will not cease in its work with supporters, communities and local stakeholders to drive LGBTQ+ inclusion and ensure the game we love is a place where everyone is respected and can feel safe playing or supporting their team.”