Police close investigation into homophobic chants at Chelsea v Manchester United in less than a day
A police investigation into homophobic chants by Manchester United fans at Chelsea has been closed after less than 24 hours.
Fans of Manchester United were alleged to have chanted “Chelsea Rent Boys” during the game on March 13.
But the investigation, which opened yesterday following an allegation by the Sun newspaper, was closed this afternoon.
The Football Association is still investigating the matter, with a spokesperson saying: “We have received a complaint about offensive chanting at this fixture.
“We take all complaints seriously and look to work collaboratively with clubs, players, managers, officials and safety officers towards eradicating all discriminatory and offensive chanting.”
By Chelsea’s guidelines, fans found guilty of discriminating against someone because of their sexual orientation face anything between a three-game ban and indefinite suspension from the club’s ground, Stamford Bridge.
The police said: “Following initial police enquiries it was concluded that the matter did not meet the threshold for further investigation and the matter is now closed.”
Inspector John Childs of Hammersmith and Fulham Police added: “The Met takes all allegations of homophobic chanting or behaviour very seriously and we investigate all matters brought to our attention.
“We routinely work very closely with football clubs, national football associations and partner agencies to monitor behaviour to ensure public confidence and safety.”
Man Utd lost 1-0 to Chelsea, with the Blues progressing through to the FA Cup semi-finals.
Earlier this month, Man Utd became the first sports team to partner with Stonewall, in a “ground-breaking” initiative.
After joining in with Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign last year, Utd – which is worth £2.2 billion, the third-most in the world – moved to cement its relationship with the charity and the LGBT community.
The partnership will see United’s ground play host to Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces Summit in May, with sports leaders gathering at Old Trafford to gain skills and knowledge for LGBT activism.
Following the announcement, Bolton Wanderers revealed its true colours with a fantastic response to one of Utd’s homophobic fans.
