Bolton Wanderers Football Club operates a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of discriminatory abuse. Racist, homophobic, ableist, sexist and faith-based discrimination, along with any other form of hateful conduct, is abhorrent and stands in direct opposition to the core values of our club.
As stated in our Supporter Charter, we are committed to being an ambitious, progressive, diverse and welcoming family club, and we will not allow the actions of a minority to undermine this fundamental principle.
The club is committed to backing these words with firm, decisive action.
So far during the 2025/26 season, there have been six separate incidents of alleged discriminatory behaviour at our fixtures directly reported to the club.
As a direct result of these reports and our subsequent investigations, two individuals have already been issued with stadium bans. All six cases have been referred to Greater Manchester Police for further investigation.
We wish to be unequivocally clear: anyone found to be engaging in discriminatory behaviour will face the strongest possible sanctions. As a club, we will always work alongside Greater Manchester Police to determine if police enforceable action can be pursued on these matters.
Supporters are reminded that discriminatory language and chanting can be classified as a hate crime and a prosecutable offence. A conviction can lead to a criminal record, which has life-altering consequences far beyond a football banning order.
Where the police are unable to prosecute, the club will not hesitate to conduct its own investigation and issue its own sanctions, which may include lifetime bans from the Toughsheet Community Stadium.
There is no place for this behaviour in football or society.
We are a club of over 20,000 supporters on a match day, the vast majority of whom support the team with passion and respect.
We will not allow the actions of a tiny minority to tarnish our reputation or ruin the match day experience - home and away - for others. We urge all true Wanderers fans to stand with us as part of the One Wanderers family.
If you see it or hear it, you have a responsibility to report it. Your action can help us identify offenders and ensure they are removed from our club.
REPORT IT CONFIDENTIALLY VIA ONE WANDERERS:
• TEXT: 07542850902 (Please include block, row, and seat number where possible).
• EMAIL: safeguarding@bwfc.co.uk.
• IN-STADIUM: Alert your nearest steward immediately. All reports will be treated with the strictest confidence.
Supporters are reminded that the club's full Fan Sanction Policy, which outlines the consequences of such behaviour, can be reviewed on the club’s official website.
Football is for everyone. There is no place for hate at Bolton Wanderers.
Together, we will ensure the Toughsheet Community Stadium is a safe and welcoming place for all.