Airdrie issue lifetime ban to fan following alleged racial abuse of East Kilbride player

A fan has been issued with a lifetime ban by Airdrieonian’s football club following allegations of racial abuse directed towards an opposition player.

The Championship outfit hosted East Kilbride on Saturday, October 12, in the fourth round of the Scottish Challenge Cup.

The Lowland League team got a shock penalty shoot-out win against the second-tier side. However, they confirmed earlier today that Portuguese midfielder Joao Balde faced alleged racist abuse at the end of the match.

The club statement posted on social media read: “East Kilbride Football Club is aware of an incident involving our player, Joao Balde, that occurred during Saturday’s match.

“We are currently in dialogue with Airdrie Football Club, who have initiated an investigation into this matter.

“We trust that Airdrie will address this situation appropriately and thoroughly. Our thoughts remain with Joao, who was exceptional on Saturday.”

Kilby boss Mick Kennedy also took to social media, stating that there is “no place for this in society.”

He wrote: “No place for this in society let alone football, I’m sure Airdrie FC will investigate and take action against the individual involved. Also astonishing the ref books one of our players for his defence of his team mate.”

Airdrie has since released a statement confirming that the individual involved has been banned and that evidence has been submitted to the police.

It read: “The club are aware of an incident which took place following Saturday’s match against East Kilbride.

“The perpetrator of the incident, in which an East Kilbride player was subjected to racial abuse, has been identified and issued with a lifetime ban.

“Airdrieonians Football Club operates a zero-tolerance policy towards racism. All information gathered and witness statements have been delivered to Police Scotland who will now take control of this matter.”

Police Scotland has been contacted for comment.