Silencing Homophobia in Sport: Are Clubs Doing Enough to Tackle Online Hate? – Yasin Patel and Caitlin Haberlin-Chambers
Despite ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity and visibility, homophobia remains a pervasive issue in sports both in the UK and globally
This article addresses the recent wave of homophobic backlash following the pregnancy announcement of Australian footballers Sam Kerr and Kristie Mewis on 18 November 2024 – although there have been further “high-profile” cases.
The incident serves as a stark reminder that, within the realm of sports, deeply ingrained and outdated values continue to hinder progress. While Chelsea’s swift condemnation of the abuse is commendable, it raises the important question of whether such responses are sufficient and what further steps clubs should be taking to combat these discriminatory attitudes.
In response to the challenges posed by online hate, Yasin Patel and Caitlin Haberlin-Chambers provide recommendations for sports organisations to effectively address and mitigate homophobic behaviour within their communities.
The Law
Many countries, including the UK, prohibit discrimination and harassment based on sexual orientation. In the UK, this falls under the Equality Act 2010.
In sports, governing bodies such as FIFA, UEFA, and the IOC require inclusion policies with penalties for non-compliance, such as fines and point deductions. Clubs can face legal consequences for failing to address homophobia, with the Public Order Act 1986 in the UK covering hate speech based on sexual orientation, including harassment of individuals based on their sexuality.
Yet, while initiatives like Football v Homophobia have grown globally to challenge discrimination, legal protections remain inconsistent.
The law in this area varies significantly worldwide, with at least 67 countries criminalizing same-sex relations and others targeting gender expression. [1] These realities underscore the limitations faced by international and national sports governing bodies, as their capacity to combat homophobia is often constrained by the legal and cultural frameworks of the countries in which they operate.
While the UK has made progress with both legal and moral frameworks, such as the Equality Act 2010, challenges persist.
A 2022 YouGov survey found that 60% of Britons and 68% of football fans consider racism a serious issue in sport, with homophobia ranking second (51-52%).[2] This reveals the limits of legal measures in overcoming entrenched societal prejudices, highlighting the need for ongoing cultural and institutional efforts to combat homophobia.
The Prevalence of Online Abuse in the Digital Era
In today’s digital age, public figures often face unwarranted abuse and hateful commentary on social media. These attacks frequently target a wide range of personal attributes, including weight, sexuality, race, gender, and even personal choices like clothing. A stark example of this was the racist abuse directed at Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford, and Jadon Sancho following their missed penalties in the Euro 2020 final against Italy. The widespread trolling highlighted the urgent need for accountability within both social media platforms and society at large.
In the wake of such incidents, research has placed greater responsibility on social media companies to combat online racism. Callum Hood, from the Centre for Countering Digital Hate, said he believed the findings showed a lack of desire by social media companies to deal with the problem of online racism.[3] Tony Burnett, CEO of football’s biggest anti-racism campaign group, Kick It Out, believes social media platforms need to take more responsibility for the racist abuse directed at England’s players during the final.
The introduction of the Online Safety Act 2023 represents a step toward holding social media companies accountable for harmful content on their platforms.
The recent backlash against a public figure’s pregnancy announcement serves as another troubling reminder of the persistent biases within society. While media outlets have covered the “shock” and outrage over such a personal moment, this only underscores the deeply ingrained prejudices still held by certain individuals. The continuation of such attitudes, exemplified by the re-election of controversial leaders like Donald Trump, who has openly espoused homophobic views, further illustrates the need for ongoing societal and institutional efforts to challenge hate and discrimination.
The Role of Sports Clubs
The Premier League is the most-watched sports league in the world, broadcast in 212 territories to 643 million homes, with a potential TV audience of 4.7 billion people.[4] The Women’s Super League (“WSL”) also recently agreed record £65 million domestic five-year TV deal with Sky Sports and BBC. As the main investor, Sky Sports are to broadcast 118 live matches per season, the BBC have committed to 21 matches, with the remaining games available on YouTube. [5] Whilst viewing rates are not nearly as high amongst the WSL, the fan base is nonetheless significant and is growing rapidly.
With such a wide fan base nationally and internationally, sports clubs play a pivotal role in shaping and setting the values expected from fans. As highly visible institutions with significant influence on communities and cultures, their conduct and policies often serve as a benchmark for acceptable behaviour both on and off the field amongst both players and fans.
Chelsea Football Club has received praise for condemning such toxic reactions. However, this raises important questions: is this response sufficient from sport clubs? And what more can sports organizations do to address and mitigate these inevitable instances of online hate?
A sufficient response?
Chelsea Football Club’s condemnation of toxic reactions is undoubtedly a step in the right direction. Public statements play a crucial role in setting the tone and signalling a zero-tolerance stance against discrimination and hate. However, the adequacy of Chelsea’s response – and that of other clubs – hinges on whether such declarations are supported by concrete and sustained measures to tackle the root causes of online abuse and promote inclusion.
In this instance, Chelsea stands alone in denouncing the homophobic abuse directed at Kerr and Mewis. Notably, West Ham United, Mewis’ own club, has remained silent on the matter, issuing no public statement to condemn the behaviour. Similarly, there has been no response from the UK government against the homophobic abuse faced by two Australian women playing in the British league despite the issue receiving significant media coverage.
Irrespective of the victims’ gender or nationality, such behaviour is incompatible with the values the UK claims to champion. The silence from key stakeholders not only undermines efforts to combat discrimination but also highlights a concerning inconsistency in the enforcement of those values. A more robust, unified response is necessary to ensure that hate, in all its forms, is unequivocally rejected.
What else needs to be done?
The short answer is: ‘a lot more’.
Sports organizations have a duty of care to protect the safety and welfare of their participants, and this responsibility extends to shielding them from online abuse. This duty applies both on and off the field. While public statements are a useful first step, more must be done to effectively address and mitigate online hate.
- Preventing Online Hate
Preventing homophobia online within sports organizations requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both cultural and structural factors.
Clear Policies
All sports organisations should have a comprehensive code of conduct and anti-homophobia policy that champions equality and inclusivity, regardless of an individual’s sexuality and inform all members of the sanctions for any breach. This is especially important for Clubs with a Community Amateur Sports Club (CASC) status. The code should apply to all stakeholders involved in the club, including players, coaches, fans, parents (where applicable), and any other relevant individuals. Clubs must ensure that all participants, from professional to amateur levels, sign and adhere to the code. This sends a clear message that homophobia will not be tolerated within the organisation.
The purpose of the code of conduct is to foster a culture of respect, inclusivity, and equality, setting a clear expectation that homophobic behaviour or any form of discrimination is not tolerated within the club.
British researchers Sheard and Dunning conducted a series of studies at male rugby union clubs. It was found that homophobic banter and derogatory jokes about gay people are common and a central part of social interactions. Studies with British rugby clubs in 2020 have found homophobic banter and jokes remain common.[6]
Sports clubs, regardless of size or age group, should implement mandatory workshops to ensure that all members understand the club’s code of conduct. For high-profile teams, such as Premier League clubs or others like the Chelsea women’s side, players have a civic responsibility to promote positive values both on and off the field. A collective approach, with active input from players, is crucial to combat behaviours such as online hate and homophobic discrimination.
By educating players and club members on the significance of adhering to the code of conduct, these values are publicly demonstrated, fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity. This principle should extend not only to professional clubs but also to amateur and junior teams, where positive behaviours are cultivated from the outset.
Education and Awareness Programs
Clubs should organise regular workshops for all members, including players, coaches, staff, and fans, to raise awareness of homophobia and its damaging effects. These workshops should cover topics such as the importance of inclusivity, the consequences of hate speech, and the identification and prevention of homophobic behaviour online.
It is essential that training is provided to help members understand how online hate speech manifests and the importance of respectful communication on social media. Participants should also be educated on how to manage their own social media presence responsibly.
Athletes in high-profile teams, as well as those at all levels, should be educated about the risks associated with social media and the potential consequences of maintaining a public profile. Workshops should help players recognise the types of posts that are likely to provoke online abuse and provide them with strategies to cope with the hate they may face. The goal is not to deter players from using social media, but to empower them to navigate the digital space responsibly and handle any abuse they may encounter.
Public Affirmation
Public support through visible symbols, such as wearing armbands or other forms of identification, plays a vital role in preventing homophobia in sports. When athletes, coaches, and staff wear rainbow armbands or similar symbols, it sends a powerful message of solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community and reaffirms the commitment to inclusivity and respect within the sport. These visible acts of support not only raise awareness but also create a culture where homophobic behaviour is less likely to be tolerated.
By integrating such symbols into both professional and amateur settings, sports organisations can further demonstrate their dedication to combating discrimination and fostering an environment where all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation, feel valued and safe.
Organisations like SLAM Global offer expert services to help clubs create and implement a robust code of conduct. This ensures that essential values and guidelines are established for players, staff, parents, and the broader club community, promoting inclusivity and addressing discrimination.
- Identifying Concerns
The second critical step in addressing homophobia within sports organisations is identifying and addressing the concerns that arise from the intersection of fame, social media, and online abuse. As noted earlier, athletes—especially those in high-profile teams—often face intense scrutiny and attention from the public, which can magnify both their accomplishments and their vulnerabilities.
The fame that accompanies athletic success, while often a source of pride, also places athletes in the public eye and subjects them to various forms of online harassment.
Social media platforms, while providing a space for engagement, unfortunately also become breeding grounds for trolling, including homophobic abuse. This creates a complex environment in which athletes are both celebrated and criticised, sometimes for no reason other than their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Effects of Online Hate
The prevalence of online abuse has significant implications for athletes, both mentally and emotionally. The effects of trolling and homophobic harassment can take a toll on a player’s well-being, potentially leading to anxiety, depression, and a sense of isolation. This reality makes it essential for sports organisations to proactively address the risks associated with social media, ensuring that players are well-prepared for the challenges they may face online.
Athletes—whether they play for high-profile teams or in more amateur settings—should be educated on the potential dangers of having a public social media profile. Workshops that focus on the types of posts that are likely to provoke online hate are crucial in helping athletes recognise the dynamics of digital abuse. These workshops should also provide strategies for managing online harassment and coping with the emotional and psychological impact it may cause. While the goal is not to deter players from using social media—an essential tool for modern communication and fan engagement—the emphasis should be on helping athletes navigate this digital space responsibly, while equipping them with the skills and resources to handle abuse when it occurs.
Support
Given that online abuse is an unfortunate and ongoing reality for many athletes, it is imperative that sports organizations provide robust support systems for players. This includes not only emotional support to help athletes cope with the psychological impacts of abuse but also guidance on practical steps they can take if they are targeted. Sports clubs should establish confidential channels for athletes to report instances of online hate or discrimination. These reporting mechanisms should be easily accessible and ensure that any concerns raised are taken seriously and addressed promptly.
It is equally important that LGBTQ+ athletes feel supported and safe within the organisation. Creating a culture of inclusivity is crucial in fostering a supportive environment. Highlighting LGBTQ+ role models within the organisation and across the sport sends a powerful message that diversity is celebrated and discrimination, in any form, will not be tolerated. Providing these athletes with the resources they need to thrive, both personally and professionally, contributes to a safer and more inclusive sporting environment
It is due to expertise in developing and implementing support structures, that SLAM Global has been able to assist sports organisations in addressing online abuse and promoting inclusivity. SLAM Global have done this through tailored workshops to educate players on online hate, help clubs implement policies that provide legal guidance, and ensure that support systems are in place for affected players. Through comprehensive training and consultation, they have helped clubs foster a culture of respect, where players feel empowered to report abuse and are supported throughout the process of addressing it.
By identifying concerns early, providing education, offering legal support, and ensuring ongoing care for players, sports organisations can take decisive steps to prevent and respond to homophobia in online spaces, creating an environment where all athletes can participate without fear of harassment or discrimination
- Responding to Online Hate
The appropriate response to online hate within sports organisations varies based on factors such as the profile of the organisation and the age of the offender. However, a well-structured, multi-faceted approach is necessary for any club or organisation to effectively tackle this pervasive issue.
High profile clubs
For top-tier organisations, such as Premier League or WSL clubs, the immediate response to online hate should be an unequivocal public statement. Such a statement, like Chelsea’s previous response to online abuse, must clearly condemn the behaviour and express solidarity with the affected players. While this is an important first step, public statements alone are insufficient to create lasting change. They must be backed by concrete actions that hold offenders accountable and address the root causes of abuse.
Sanctions must be considered for fans found guilty of online abuse. Possible measures include match bans, revocation of membership, or exclusion from specific events. However, one of the main challenges faced by clubs is identifying online abusers. The anonymity afforded by the internet emboldens “keyboard warriors” who believe they can target players without facing consequences. A practical solution to this issue is collaboration with third-party organisations that specialise in online threat detection and monitoring. For example, Signify, an ethical data science company, has had notable success in removing the cloak of anonymity during the Rugby World Cup through its ‘Threat Matrix’ service. This service uses advanced algorithms to analyse online behaviour and ensure that abusers are held accountable for their actions.[7]
Arsenal Football Club has already implemented this approach and, as a result, banned eighteen supporters from attending matches for three years due to their abusive behaviour. Collaborating with companies like Signify is a crucial step for clubs looking to take meaningful action against online hate. [8]
Amateur Clubs
Although amateur clubs may not face the same level of public scrutiny as top-tier organisations, their responsibility to uphold values of inclusivity and respect is no less important. The shared duty of combating discrimination and hate extends across all levels of sport, and amateur clubs must uphold these values by implementing policies, educating players, and taking decisive action against online abuse.
In many cases, the smaller scale of amateur clubs may make it easier to foster a more intimate, supportive environment where players and staff can be educated on the importance of inclusion. Ensuring that all members understand the club’s code of conduct, and the consequences of online abuse, is essential in creating a culture of respect.
While these clubs may not have access to the same legal resources as larger organisations, there are still opportunities to collaborate with local law enforcement and legal experts to address issues of online hate.
Youth and Juniors
The responsibility to prevent and respond to online hate is particularly critical for clubs with youth or junior teams. These organisations play a pivotal role in shaping the values and behaviours of the next generation of athletes. When a junior member is found to be engaging in online hate, the response should go beyond punitive measures. A dual approach is recommended: sanctions to highlight the seriousness of the offense, coupled with an educational component that helps the individual understand the harm caused by their actions.
For offenders under the age of 18, education is especially important, as mere sanctions may not address the underlying attitudes or behaviours that led to the offence. Educational initiatives should focus on fostering empathy, understanding the impact of homophobic behaviour, and promoting inclusivity in both online and offline spaces. These efforts help ensure that the offending behaviour does not repeat itself in the future and contribute to a more positive culture within the club.
Legal Action
Regardless of the size or level of the club, legal action should always be part of the response strategy to online hate. While high-profile clubs may have more resources, legal avenues are accessible to all organisations, both large and small. Whether pursuing legal action against perpetrators or collaborating with law enforcement, clubs must send a clear message that online abuse has tangible consequences.
Access to experienced legal counsel is crucial for sports organisations to navigate the complexities of online hate and discrimination. Legal experts can guide clubs on the best course of action, whether through civil or criminal proceedings, based on the severity of the abuse and the applicable laws in their jurisdiction. Proactively using legal resources helps ensure that online hate is met with appropriate consequences, deterring future incidents and reinforcing the commitment to a safe, inclusive environment for all.
Many organisations have in-house legal teams: but are they experienced or knowledgeable enough to deal with all areas of discrimination? SLAM Global has significant experience in advising sports organisations on how to respond to allegations of discrimination, including cases involving minors. SLAM Global has previously guided a cricket club in handling allegations of racism among youth players. And to highlight the importance of helping organisations that do not have deep pockets, where possible, it offers its services free of charge to clubs that need expert guidance on managing sensitive situations involving minors.
By offering this support, SLAM Global helps ensure that clubs are equipped to handle online abuse and discrimination in a way that is both legally sound and educationally impactful.
Conclusion
The persistent issue of homophobia in sports, as highlighted by the recent backlash against Sam Kerr and Kristie Mewis, underscores the need for continued efforts to combat discrimination both on and off the field. While public condemnations and statements of support, like those from Chelsea, are important steps, they are not sufficient on their own.
Sports organisations, regardless of size, must take a proactive and multifaceted approach to address homophobic abuse, integrating clear policies, education, and legal measures into their strategies. It is imperative that clubs at all levels foster inclusive environments that prioritise respect, equality, and accountability.
By adopting the recommendations of experts, sports organisations can play a crucial role in challenging harmful attitudes, setting a standard for inclusion, and ensuring that homophobia has no place in the world of sport.
[1] https://features.hrw.org/features/features/lgbt_laws/
[2] https://yougov.co.uk/sport/articles/42604-half-football-fans-say-homophobia-serious-problem-#:~:text=Six%20in%20ten%20Britons%20(60,problem%20(51%2D52%25).
[3] https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-58466849
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Premier_League#:~:text=The%20Premier%20League%20is%20the,audience%20of%204.7%20billion%20people.
[5] https://www.theguardian.com/football/2024/oct/30/wsl-agrees-record-65m-domestic-five-year-tv-deal-with-sky-sports-and-bbc
[6] https://outonthefields.com/evidence-timeline/#:~:text=British%20researchers%20Sheard%20and%20Dunning,banter%20and%20jokes%20remain%20common.
[7] https://www.sports.legal/2024/06/how-sports-clubs-and-governing-bodies-are-protecting-their-officials-and-athletes/
[8] Ibid.
