Leeds United and Millwall are working with police following allegations of tragedy chanting by away fans at Elland Road during Saturday’s FA Cup tie.
Leeds released a statement shortly after full time alleging that chanting had been heard referencing the fatal stabbings of Leeds fans Chris Loftus and Kevin Speight before the 2000 UEFA Cup semi-final with Galatasaray in Istanbul.
The Football Association is aware of the incident and will be liaising with the two clubs and authorities.
Leeds described the chants as “vile” and Millwall said they were “appalled” by the reports.
“During today’s FA Cup fourth round tie with Millwall, we were extremely disappointed to hear vile chants relating to football tragedies from the away section at Elland Road,” a Leeds statement read.
“We know the impact this has on the families of Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight, along with the whole fan base of Leeds United.
“We will work with the police and Millwall Football Club to identify those involved, whilst we will also continue our efforts with the football authorities to help eradicate these chants from the game.”
A Millwall statement added: “The club strongly condemns all forms of football tragedy abuse and is appalled to receive reports of such chanting from a minority at today’s Emirates FA Cup fixture against Leeds United.
“Both clubs have suffered tragic losses to their respective families in recent history. Chanting about this is entirely unacceptable and will not be tolerated by the club or the governing bodies.
“It has no place in football and the club will work closely with Leeds United and authorities to identify those responsible.”
The Athletic has contacted West Yorkshire Police for comment.
In August 2023, the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service released new guidance around punishments for tragedy chanting. This stated that “tragedy-related abuse” can be prosecuted as a public order offence, with fans possibly being punished with a football banning order — meaning they could be prevented from attending matches and tournaments, travelling to certain areas and denied entrance to pubs during matches.
Tragedy chanting has marred previous meetings between Leeds and Millwall, and ahead of the pair’s Championship fixture in September 2023 players from both clubs took part in a video to appeal for a halt to tragedy chanting.
Millwall beat Leeds 2-0 in Saturday’s FA Cup tie to progress to the fifth round of the competition.
GO DEEPER
What is tragedy chanting, is it illegal and how does it impact football fans?
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