Police appeal for witnesses of alleged racist abuse at Bristol Rovers game
A Burton Albion player was subject to alleged racist abuse from a fan in yesterday's game
Last updated 16th Feb 2025
The police are appealing for witnesses following a Burton Albion player being subject to alleged racist abuse in yesterday's game against Bristol Rovers.
Avon and Somerset Police are investigating the alleged racist abuse that was aimed at defender, Udoka Godwin-Malife, after being made aware of the incident at around 4:20pm on Saturday.
A fan was ordered to leave the grounds following the incident which prompted a flurry of finger-pointing by players.
Football Officer PC, Steven Dix, said: "There is no place for racism in our society and we will not tolerate such behaviour.
"We are conducting a full and thorough investigation.
"We are working closely with both football clubs to gather statements from players and have conducted a number of inquiries, including gaining CCTV.
"We are appealing for any witnesses who may have seen or heard the incident, have relevant footage, or have any other information which can aid our inquiries."
The fan, who was seated in the Bristol Rovers section of the stadium, is described as white and wearing a black North Face jacket and glasses.
Burton Albion Head Coach, Gary Bowyer, said: "At this moment in time, there's not a great deal I can say with an investigation going on, and so I can't really comment on anything else other than that at the moment.
"My main concern is the welfare of our players, so that is the main thing for me, making sure all of our players are okay, and so we will offer all of them the support that is needed.
"But apart from that, it is then above my head in terms of the authorities and what have you, and it is under investigation."
Both teams have released statements.
A statement from Bristol Rovers said: "Bristol Rovers Football Club is aware of an allegation of racist abuse aimed at a Burton Albion player during today's Sky Bet League One fixture at The Memorial Stadium.
"The Club is working closely with Burton Albion and the police to fully investigate the matter.
"Both Bristol Rovers and Burton Albion are fully aligned in our belief that there is no place for racism in football, and everyone at the Club extends our fullest support to our friends and colleagues at Burton.
"The Club will be making no further comment at this time."
Burton Albion posted on social media platform, X.
The statement said: "We are aware of an allegation of racist abuse at today's game.
"We are working closely with Bristol Rovers and the police to fully investigate.
"Both clubs are fully aligned that there is no place in football for racist abuse and will be supporting the player in any way we can.
"The Club will be making no further comment at this time."
Members of the public are asked to contact 101 and quote reference 5225040996.