FA charge Chelsea over sectarian chanting during Fulham win

Chelsea have been charged by the Football Association over alleged discriminatory behaviour by a small group of supporters during their Premier League victory at Fulham earlier this season.

Chelsea players celebrate during their win at Craven Cottage

The charge relates to the club's 3-2 victory at Craven Cottage on 24 August, following what Chelsea described as “multiple reports of sectarian chanting from a small portion” of their travelling support.

In the aftermath of the match, the Blues wrote directly to supporters acknowledging the reports, insisting they do not condone any discriminatory chants and warning that any fan found guilty would face “the strongest possible action”.

FA statement

A statement from an FA spokesperson confirmed the governing body had taken formal action against the west London club.

“Chelsea FC has been charged with breaching FA Rule E21 during the ninth minute of its Premier League fixture against Fulham FC on 24 August,” the statement read.

“It's alleged that the club failed to ensure its spectators and/or supporters did not behave in an improper, offensive, abusive or insulting way.

“It's further alleged that this behaviour was discriminatory in that it included a reference, whether express or implied, to religion or belief.”

The charge specifically points to the ninth minute of the match, the moment at which anti-Catholic chanting has historically been directed at opposing supporters.

Previous incidents

The club has faced scrutiny over sectarian abuse from fans before. In 2021, Chelsea condemned the actions of a supporter who was seen on social media aiming sectarian abuse at Aston Villa's Scottish international midfielder John McGinn.

Chelsea currently sit 10th in the Premier League table on seven points after the opening five games of the campaign. The club now has the opportunity to respond to the charge before the FA's disciplinary process runs its course.