Hull FC condemn ‘thuggish acts’ sparked by racism

Super League side Hull FC have condemned the “disgraceful scenes” that took place in the city centre yesterday afternoon and overnight as the club faced St Helens.

As has been the case in numerous cities and towns across the country, protests leading to vandalism and violence has taken place fuelled by racist right-wing activists.

Such scenes began in Southport in the aftermath of the tragic killing of three young girls attending a Taylor Swift dance class. The news of their deaths and the knife attack that led to them shocked and appalled the nation, however, the subsequent racism-fuelled protests cast a further shadow on the town.

Similar incidents happened in cities such as Sunderland where a police station was set alight and at the direction of right-wing groups and activists such as Tommy Robinson, further so-called ‘protests’ were arranged.

As Hull FC have shared in their statement, such ‘protests’ were effectively an excuse for ‘racism, violence and vandalism’.

The club had to advise fans leaving the MKM Stadium yesterday to avoid the city centre so as not to get caught up in the incidents and they’ve now shared a statement strongly condemning what happened.

Super League side Hull FC take stand against “thuggish acts”

The following statement was shared on the club’s website and social media.

“Hull FC stands in solidarity with those affected by the disgraceful scenes in the city yesterday afternoon and overnight.

“We are appalled by the violent and thuggish acts aimed at both residents and local businesses, and towards members of the emergency services. Racism, violence and vandalism simply has no place in our great city and we unequivocally condemn such behaviour.

“The club is proud to call our welcoming, diverse and vibrant city our home, and we remind our supporters and followers that no matter your race or religion, you are welcome in our community – those who encourage disorder and division are not.

“These events do not represent our city, our people or our culture. Hull is built on freedom, togetherness and hard-working, salt of the earth communities. The actions of mindless thugs will never change that.

“Our thoughts and prayers remain with all those affected, including those who suffered injuries, and we give heartfelt thanks to the brave officers from Humberside Police and our wider emergency services for defending our communities.

“We remain, and always will be, ‘Hull&Proud’.”