Stockport County condemns use of club crest in anti-LGBTQ+ political propaganda
Club reiterates political neutrality after crest appears in hateful imagery
Last updated 29th Jul 2025
Stockport County Football Club has spoken out after becoming aware of its club crest being used without permission in political propaganda that included anti-LGBTQ+ imagery.
The League One side issued a strong statement emphasising its position as a politically neutral organisation and condemning the unauthorised use of its logo in material promoting hate and division.
A spokesperson for the club said: “Stockport County Football Club is, and always will be, a politically neutral organisation. We do not endorse, support, or affiliate with any political party, candidate, or ideology.”
The club's statement follows instances where its crest was shared alongside symbols that promote discrimination against LGBTQ+ communities — a move that the club has described as deeply concerning and against its values.
The statement continued: “Our club crest is a registered trademark and a symbol of unity, community, and the collective passion for football at Edgeley Park. It represents all our fans, staff, players, and the wider Stockport community, regardless of their individual political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, religion, or any other characteristic.”
Stockport County also reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity, saying: “There is no place for hate, discrimination, or exclusion of any kind at Edgeley Park or within our community. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and safe.”
The club made clear that any unauthorised use of its branding, particularly in divisive or hateful contexts, would be met with firm action: “We will take all necessary steps, including legal action where appropriate, to prevent such unauthorised use of our club crest and protect our brand integrity.”
Supporters have been urged to stand by the club’s values. “We urge all supporters to respect the Club's neutrality and help us maintain an environment where everyone feels welcome and united by their love for County,” the statement concluded.