Arsenal takes a firm stand against abusive and discriminatory behaviour, handing three-year bans to 31 members and season ticket holders.

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 11: General view outside the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brentford FC at Emirates Stadium on February 11, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 11: General view outside the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brentford FC at Emirates Stadium on February 11, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
  • Arsenal bans 31 members and season ticket holders for abusive and discriminatory behaviour, handing them three-year bans.
  • The club has been working with data science company Signify Group since August 2021 to combat targeted online abuse, examining 11.3 million posts.
  • Individuals who have been banned can reduce the length of their punishment by attending a one-to-one education programme run

Arsenal have recently handed three-year bans to 31 of its members and season ticket holders for engaging in abusive and discriminatory behaviour.

The club has taken stringent action to demonstrate that such behaviour will not be tolerated at Arsenal, neither online nor in the stadium.

The bans are a consequence of instances of abuse occurring online (18) and within the stadium (13).

Online offences include 10 instances of threats or death threats, three cases of ableism, two cases of homophobia, two cases of antisemitism, and one case of racism.

In-stadium offences comprise five cases of homophobia, three cases of antisemitism, three cases of threatening behaviour, and two cases of racism.

Arsenal have been actively monitoring social media channels and working with data science company Signify Group since August 2021 to combat targeted online abuse.

Using Signify Group’s specialist Threat Matrix service, they have examined 11.3 million posts, identifying abusive accounts, blocking them, and reporting them to the appropriate platforms and authorities.

Arsenal CEO Vinai Venkatesham speaks out

Arsenal CEO Vinai Venkatesham emphasised the club’s commitment to fighting abuse and discrimination, stating, “We take all forms of abuse and discrimination extremely seriously – whether online or in and around the stadium. While we are talking about a tiny minority of our supporter base, we must continue to take strong action against abusers who are identified as Arsenal season ticket holders or members, including escalating to the police where appropriate.”

Venkatesham also noted the role of technology in creating a safer space for the entire Arsenal family and the club’s aim to foster an environment where everyone feels welcome.

Education as a tool for change

In addition to the bans, Arsenal are offering those who have been banned the opportunity to reduce the length of their punishment if they attend a one-to-one education programme run by Kick It Out.

The programme allows individuals to discuss the impact of their behaviour on others and demonstrate a willingness to reflect and change their mindset moving forward.

Arsenal’s inclusion programmes, designed for the local community, aim to support education on topics of abuse and discrimination.

The club will continue to use its global platforms to give a voice and bring focus to matters of equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Abuse in the stadium or online can be reported via Arsenal’s website.