Police are urgently seeking witnesses following allegations that Burton Albion’s defender Udoka Godwin-Malife was subjected to racial abuse during their 3-1 loss to Bristol Rovers.
The incident reportedly occurred at Bristol’s Memorial Stadium, prompting an interruption of the match by referee Tom Kirk in the latter stages of the second half.
Following the disruption, a Bristol Rovers fan was ejected from the venue. The fan, described as a white male donning a black North Face jacket and glasses, allegedly made the offensive remarks from the Bristol Rovers seating area.
In response to the incident, which was reported to Avon and Somerset Police at approximately 4:20 pm on Saturday, law enforcement officers engaged with Burton’s manager Gary Bowyer and Godwin-Malife, aged 24, within the changing room area post-match.
PC Steven Dix, a Football Officer, remarked, “We are diligently collaborating with both clubs to secure statements from the players involved and are conducting several investigative measures, including the review of CCTV footage.”
Gary Bowyer refrained from elaborating on the specifics but expressed a primary concern for the welfare of his players, committing to provide necessary support.
Bristol Rovers acknowledged the allegations through a statement, asserting their cooperation with Burton Albion and the police to thoroughly investigate the matter.
Burton Albion echoed this sentiment on social media platform X, condemning racist abuse in football and affirming their support for the player involved.
