Newport rounds on 'unacceptable' fan behaviour

Newport condemns racist abuse, homophobic chants and pitch invasions by a minority of supporters, citing financial and reputational damage.

Newport County has issued a strong statement condemning unacceptable supporter behaviour this season, including racist abuse, pitch invasions, fighting and fireworks. The club's FA Cup first-round win against Walsall on Saturday was halted for five minutes when referee Robert Massey-Ellis stopped play to address alleged homophobic chants directed at the home crowd near the dugouts.

The club faces potential charges from both the Football Association and police, as homophobic and discriminatory chants breach FA rules and are classified as hate crimes. Newport stated the incidents have caused reputational damage and forced the club to commit additional resources to stewarding, security and investigations — funds that could otherwise be invested in football operations and facilities.

Newport pledged to work with the FA, EFL, Gwent Police and other bodies to address the issues, emphasising that the actions of a small minority do not reflect the values of the club or the conduct of the vast majority of supporters.