Leeds United have confirmed that a man will appear in court following allegations of racist abuse directed at Ethan Ampadu and Largie Ramazani after a Championship fixture earlier this year.
The incident occurred on February 17, 2025, after Leeds’ 2-1 victory over Sunderland at Elland Road. As the players left the field, both Ampadu and Ramazani were allegedly subjected to racial abuse from the away section.
Man charged over incident
West Yorkshire Police confirmed that a 66-year-old man from Bishop Auckland, Durham, was arrested on suspicion of causing racially aggravated harassment, alarm, or distress. He has since been ordered to appear at Leeds Magistrates’ Court on October 17.
In an official statement, the club said both players have received full support from Leeds staff and the police since the incident. Ramazani, who is currently on loan at Valencia, and captain Ampadu have been personally assisted throughout the process.
Leeds United’s firm stance
A Leeds spokesperson stated:
“Following Leeds United’s 2-1 Sky Bet Championship victory over Sunderland AFC at Elland Road on Monday 17 February 2025, Ethan Ampadu and Largie Ramazani were subjected to racial abuse from an individual in the away section as they left the pitch. Both players have been supported by the club and West Yorkshire Police individually following the incident.
West Yorkshire Police have today confirmed a 66-year-old male, from Bishop Auckland, Durham, was arrested on suspicion of causing racially aggravated harassment, alarm or distress and has now been summoned by postal requisition to appear at Leeds Magistrates Court on Friday 17 October. Leeds United Football Club, Ethan Ampadu and Largie Ramazani would all like to thank West Yorkshire Police for their support in this matter. There is no room for racism in football or society. The club will be making no further comment.”
The club stressed its zero-tolerance stance on racism, reiterating that discriminatory behaviour has no place in football or wider society.