English Football Discrimination Reports Reach Record 1,744

Reports of discriminatory behavior in English football rose to a record 1,744 during the 2025-26 season, according to figures released by the anti-discrimination organization Kick It Out.

The total was 25% higher than in the previous campaign, with reported incidents increasing across every category monitored by the group. Racism remained the most frequently reported form of discrimination, accounting for 792 reports, or 45% of the total, after a 19% year-on-year increase.

Kick It Out also recorded 216 reports of sexism, 203 of homophobia, 93 of antisemitism, 89 of ableism and 60 of Islamophobia. The organization said each category reached its highest total in five years.

Anti-immigrant chanting was reported 39 times, more than in the previous two seasons combined. Kick It Out said such chanting was heard at multiple levels of the game. Reports from grassroots football rose for a fifth consecutive season, increasing 33% to a record 248.

The organization cautioned that higher totals can partly reflect better reporting and a greater willingness by supporters and players to challenge abuse. It called for consistent action from football bodies, clubs, leagues, regulators, government and online platforms.