Kick It Out reports a rise in sexism, transphobic abuse in UK football season

LONDON – The 2024-25 football season in the United Kingdom saw a rise in reports of sexism, transphobic and faith-based abuse, said the UK-based anti-discrimination and inclusion charity Kick It Out.

A Kick It Out statement said the charity received 1,398 reports of abuse, up from 1,332 last season.

It said that the reports came from people who said they had experienced or witnessed discrimination online or at a grassroots, non-league or professional game. The charity did not identify the abusers.

Sexism and misogyny increased by 67 per cent, while faith-based abuse also saw a sharp rise.

Reports of homophobic abuse fell slightly but transphobic abuse doubled last season, added Kick It Out, who incorporate incidents from across professional football, grassroots and social media.

Reports of racist incidents in professional football rose from 223 to 245, despite a drop in overall reports of racism across all levels of the game.

“No one should be facing hostility simply for taking part. These figures show that discrimination remains deeply embedded across the game, but the rise in abuse in youth football should be a wake-up call,” Kick It Out chief executive Samuel Okafor said in a statement on Aug 5.

“What we’re seeing now is that fans aren’t just reporting abuse, they’re demanding action. There’s been a clear shift this season in how people are calling out sexist behaviour, both online and in stadiums, and asking football to treat it as seriously as any other form of hate.

“At the same time, it’s clear that online platforms are still falling short. The volume of abuse remains high, and too often, those responsible face no consequences.

“Fans are doing their part by speaking up. It’s now up to football authorities, tech companies and government to show they’re listening, and to act.”

During the recently concluded Women’s Euro 2025 won by England, Lionesses defender Jess Carter said she had been the target of online racist abuse since start of the tournament in Switzerland. She stepped away from social media for the duration of the championships.

Football Association CEO Mark Bullingham condemned the abuse, while the England team said “those behind the online poison must be held accountable”.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also posted his support for Carter on X.

“There is no place for racism in football or anywhere in society,” he said. “I stand with Jess, the Lionesses, and any players who have suffered racism, on and off the pitch.” REUTERS, AFP