A Sunderland supporter received a three-year ban from football matches and a fine for racially harassing Leeds United players Ethan Ampadu and Largie Ramazani during a game at Elland Road.
According to a report from West Yorkshire Police, the abhorrent abuse occurred on 17 February at Elland Road during Leeds’ narrow 2-1 win over Sunderland.
The police confirmed that the harassment targeted Leeds United players Ethan Ampadu and Largie Ramazani from the away end, specifically as the players were exiting the pitch following the final whistle of the evening match. The nature of the abuse led to an immediate investigation.
The individual responsible, identified as Steven Patterson, 68, of Bishop Auckland, County Durham, was subsequently brought before Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court.
Patterson formally pleaded guilty to racially aggravated harassment. The prosecution presented evidence that he was reported for the offensive and discriminatory act of “making a monkey gesture” towards the targeted players.
In addition to the extensive three-year football banning order, which prevents him from attending regulated matches across the country, Patterson was issued a significant financial penalty by the magistrates.
He was fined £346, and further ordered to pay £85 costs and a mandatory surcharge fee of £138.
The court’s ruling reinforces the severity of such an offence and the clear punitive measures applied to individuals who engage in discriminatory behaviour towards professional athletes, highlighting a continued zero-tolerance stance on racism within the sport.