Oldham Athletic Football Club is disappointed with the FA’s lenient punishment of the racist behaviour displayed by a former employee during his time at the club.
Whilst the club welcome football’s governing body dealing with this incident, the racist joke relating to the Islamic holy month of Ramadan posted in the Oldham players’ WhatsApp group was a serious matter which we believe has not been dealt with appropriately. We think questions must be asked about the conclusion of this investigation.
In light of the recent, long overdue debate surrounding racism in football, as a club we feel this level of punishment does not do enough to support the hard work that clubs do to stamp racism out of football.
More must be done to change attitudes not just in football at the top levels, but also lower down the pyramid as well as in society, and the club feel that this so called punishment does not echo that message.
Racism is unacceptable in any form, and should play no part in football or society.
Oldham Athletic is committed to making an inclusive, enjoyable atmosphere at Boundary Park for people of all backgrounds and are proud of the work that is being done in our community to bring people together.