Forest warn fans of bans over misogynistic chanting

Nottingham Forest supporters identified taking part in misogynistic chanting may face education sessions, acceptable behaviour contracts or club bans, the club has warned. Forest also says it could face sanctions if the chanting continues, putting consequences for the club as well as individual fans at the centre of its message.

The club said the chant has a long history among small sections of its support, but stressed that it is sung by a minority. Forest added that its limited use does not reduce its misogynistic nature or potential impact.

Nottinghamshire Police and anti-discrimination organisation Kick It Out had raised the issue, Forest said. The club then discussed it with its Fan Advisory Board before issuing a message that discrimination, including misogynistic chanting, would not be tolerated.

For supporters identified as participating, education sessions are among the possible responses. Further action could include a club ban or an acceptable behaviour contract. Forest did not describe those measures as automatic: its warning says fans may face them, depending on the action taken.

The club says women and girls should feel safe and respected at the City Ground and when following Forest away from home. It has asked all supporters to consider the impact of their words and help maintain an inclusive environment.

The warning comes before Forest’s home match against Arsenal on Sunday, 18 October. Forest are 15th after six Premier League matches, with five points, but the club’s message is about more than the next fixture: if the chanting continues, the potential consequences extend beyond the supporters involved to the club itself.