Wolves is reaffirming its zero-tolerance approach to discrimination of any kind ahead of this Monday night’s game at Chelsea.
In previous seasons, matches against Chelsea have unfortunately seen instances of discriminatory chanting, specifically the offensive ‘rent boy’ chant that is classed as a homophobic slur. Such actions have led to arrests, highlighting the severity of this issue.
The term ‘rent-boy’ originates from the 1960s, where the Earl’s Court area near Stamford Bridge was well-known for its gay scene and concentration of male sex workers. From the 1980’s onwards, its use as an insult or derogatory term at Chelsea matches became disappointingly commonplace.
Ahead of this fixture, Wolves urges all supporters to understand that the ‘Chelsea rent boy’ chant is classified as a homophobic slur by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and constitutes a hate crime - a prosecutable offence.
The CPS defines a hate crime as “any criminal offence which is perceived by the victim or any other person to be motivated by hostility or prejudice”.
Furthermore, supporters who are not prosecuted by police or issued a Football Banning Order are still at risk of being banned from all Wolves matches if deemed to have contravened Wolves’ Acceptable Behaviour Policy, which can be viewed by clicking here.
Matt Wild, Wolves’ director of football operations and administration, said: “At Wolves, we are unwavering in our commitment to eradicating all forms of discrimination. We remain focused on educating supporters about homophobia, including the use of this chant, which has been a recognised criminal offence for three years.
“Homophobic chanting or gestures are not only offensive and unacceptable but go against the core values of Wolves. Such behaviour tarnishes the matchday experience for fans and undermines the inclusive spirit of football.
“We trust that our supporters will stand together against hateful and homophobic actions. Wolves will continue to promote inclusivity in football and society, tackling abuse both inside stadiums and online.”
This initiative aligns with the broader “Love Football. Protect the Game” campaign launched at the start of the 2022/23 season by The FA, Premier League, EFL, Women’s Super League, and other footballing bodies. Supported by the Football Supporters’ Association, the campaign reinforces enhanced measures and tough sanctions to ensure a safe and welcoming matchday environment for all.
Football is an inclusive game, with a unique power to unite fans and bring communities together to share and celebrate their passion. Messaging continues to be promoted to fans throughout the season, to remind supporters to help keep matchdays a positive and welcoming experience for all, making it clear discrimination and other unacceptable behaviour will not be tolerated, and action will be taken. For more information on the Love Football. Protect the Game campaign, please click here.
Anyone who has experienced a football-related hate crime, or has information about an offence, should make a formal report by calling 101 or via the Live Chat service on the West Midlands Police website. For more information on how to report an incident or discrimination at Molineux, please click here.
On a home matchday, fans are encouraged if they see or hear racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory or antisocial behaviour to report what they see or experience to a matchday steward, or text the Not In Our Pack text line on 07723 479887 and start the message with WOLVES.
At Stamford Bridge, you can report discrimination during the match by texting 07894 937 793, or after the game by calling 020 7386 3355.
