The Football Association (FA) is investigating incidents of “tragedy chanting” during the Premier League match between Luton Town and Liverpool at Kenilworth Road on Sunday.
Several supporters were heard indirectly referencing the Hillsborough disaster during the second half of the game, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
Commentator and former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher condemned the chants, while Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who claimed he did not hear them, stated, “Shame on everyone who said it.”
The FA released a statement on Monday expressing its condemnation and confirmed that it is seeking more information from Luton Town and the police.
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“We strongly condemn chanting of this nature and will continue to work closely with our stakeholders across the game, including the clubs, leagues, fan groups, and the relevant authorities to proactively address the issue,” stated the FA in their release.
Luton Town later issued a statement expressing their sadness over the inappropriate chants towards Liverpool supporters.
The club has initiated an internal investigation and is reviewing CCTV and media footage. The statement also mentioned that perpetrators could face stadium bans and potential criminal prosecutions.
In conclusion, Luton Town apologized to anyone offended by the chants and pledged to work with supporter groups to educate fans on chants that are categorized as tragedy abuse by football authorities, the police, and CPS.
Liverpool has reached out to Luton Town to inquire about their response to the chanting, including their stewarding and use of the PA system.
Carragher raised the issue during the broadcast, saying, “At the start of the season, I was involved in something with supporters coming together about tragedy chanting. I’ve just heard that a couple of times in this game. As supporters, you’ve got to have rivalry, there is no doubt. But we’re better than that.”
The Premier League has intensified its efforts to combat tragedy chanting, with the Crown Prosecution Service updating its prosecution guidance on football-related offences. Offenders could face stadium bans and criminal prosecution.
Liverpool managed to secure a late draw with substitute Luis Diaz equalizing Tahith Chong’s 80th-minute goal for Luton.
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(Photo: Getty Images)
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