The latest data reveals that anti-immigrant chanting in English football has surged to record levels, with over 39 reports of such abuse last season alone. According to Kick It Out, discriminatory mass chanting targeting immigrants has become a disturbing feature at matches across all levels of the game.
Sharp Increase in Anti-Immigrant Chanting Reports
Kick It Out, the anti-discrimination charity, recorded 39 reports of anti-immigrant chanting during the 2025-26 season — more than the previous two seasons combined. Phrases like “stop the boats” and “send them back” were heard in stadiums, reflecting a broader societal rise in hateful rhetoric.
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Record Levels of Discrimination in Football
The charity received a total of 1,744 reports of discriminatory behavior in 2025-26, a 25% increase from the prior season and the highest ever. Every category of discrimination rose to new highs. Racism remained the most common (792 reports, +19%), followed by sexism (216, +12%), homophobia (203, +46%), antisemitism (93, +43%), ableism (89, +20%), and Islamophobia (60, +88%).
| Type of Discrimination | 2025-26 Reports | Year-on-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| Racism | 792 | +19% |
| Sexism | 216 | +12% |
| Homophobia | 203 | +46% |
| Antisemitism | 93 | +43% |
| Ableism | 89 | +20% |
| Islamophobia | 60 | +88% |
Grassroots football also saw a fifth consecutive year of rising abuse, with 248 reports (+33%). Abuse against match officials reached 98 reports — equal to the previous three seasons combined.
Societal Context and Response
Samuel Okafor, CEO of Kick It Out, noted that these figures mirror a rise in hate crime and divisive political rhetoric in Britain. However, he praised the growing willingness of supporters and players to stand up against abuse. Professional footballers have increasingly spoken out, setting an example for fans.
- Anti-immigrant chanting more than doubled compared to prior two seasons.
- Total discrimination reports hit record high of 1,744.
- Every discrimination category saw an increase.
- Grassroots abuse up 33% year-on-year.
- 98 reports against officials — same as last three seasons combined.
What Can Be Done?
Clubs and governing bodies must enforce stricter penalties and educate fans. Kick It Out urges everyone to report incidents via their app or hotline. The fight against hate in football requires collective action.
FAQ
What is anti-immigrant chanting in football?
It refers to abusive chants targeting immigrants, such as “stop the boats” or “send them back,” heard at football matches.
How widespread is the problem?
In the 2025-26 season, 39 reports of anti-immigrant chanting were made to Kick It Out, more than the previous two years combined.
What is Kick It Out doing?
The charity collects reports, runs campaigns, and works with clubs to combat discrimination. They encourage fans to report abuse through their channels.
Are players taking action?
Yes, professional players have increasingly spoken out against discrimination, helping to raise awareness and support reporting.
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