Chelsea Football Club has vowed to take the strongest possible action against any supporters found to have sung an antisemitic chant onThursday night at a Europa League clash with Vidi in Budapest’s Groupama Arena. Minutes into the game, which was drawn 2-2, a vocal minority of Chelsea supporters were heard singing a derogatory chant about Tottenham supporters, using antisemitic language.
The World Jewish Congress commends Chelsea FC for its efforts in making clear that xenophobia, racism, discrimination, and antisemitism will not be tolerated, and for continuing to put words into action when incidents arise. We are proud to be partnering with Chelsea in a far-reaching campaign to fight the evils of hatred, and we stand in support of its principled actions, on and off the field.
A Chelsea spokesman said Thursday: “Antisemitism and any other kind of race-related or religious hatred is abhorrent to this club and the overwhelming majority of our fans. It has no place at Chelsea or in any of our communities. We have stated this loud and clear on many occasions from the owner, the board, coaches and players. Any individuals that can’t summon the brainpower to comprehend this simple message and are found to have shamed the club by used using antisemitic or racist words or actions will face the strongest possible action from the club.”