Wolves are reminding supporters of the club’s zero-tolerance approach to discrimination of any kind ahead of this weekend’s Premier League game against Chelsea, which is our dedicated Premier League With Pride fixture.
All Premier League fixtures during this period are highlighting LGBTQ+ inclusion as part of Premier League With Pride, which falls within LGBTQ+ History Month. The campaign builds on more than a decade of work across football, including support for Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces, and focuses on education, celebration and belonging, while reinforcing the game’s commitment to ensuring everyone feels welcome.
Against that backdrop, the club is again making clear that discriminatory chanting has no place at Molineux.
In previous meetings between Wolves and Chelsea, instances of discriminatory chanting have led to arrests and police investigations, specifically relating to the offensive ‘rent boy’ chant. The phrase is recognised as a homophobic slur by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), and its use at football matches constitutes a hate crime and prosecutable offence.
The term originated in the 1960s, when the Earl’s Court area near Stamford Bridge was known for its gay community and concentration of male sex workers. From the 1980s onwards, its use as an insult at football matches became commonplace. The CPS and football authorities have since made clear that the chant is offensive, discriminatory and unacceptable.
Supporters are reminded that anyone found to have engaged in discriminatory chanting may face arrest, prosecution and a Football Banning Order. In addition, fans who breach Wolves’ Acceptable Behaviour Policy risk being banned from all Wolves matches, even if no criminal charges are brought. The policy can be viewed here.
Matt Wild, Wolves’ director of football operations and administration, said: “Our Pride fixture is about making it clear that football is for everyone, and that everyone should feel safe and welcome at Molineux.
“At Wolves, we are unwavering in our commitment to eradicating all forms of discrimination. We continue to work with supporters, the Premier League and other football bodies to educate fans about homophobia and why this chant is so harmful and unacceptable.
“Homophobic chanting or gestures are offensive, unlawful and completely at odds with the values of Wolves. Such behaviour damages the matchday experience and undermines the inclusive spirit of the game. We trust our supporters will stand together against hate and help ensure this fixture is a positive occasion for all.”
The Premier League With Pride activity represents a shift towards a more sustained, year-round approach to LGBTQ+ inclusion across the game. Clubs are encouraged to demonstrate positive action in ways that fit their communities, helping people feel seen, respected and included.
Football has a unique power to bring people together, and Wolves remains committed to making matchdays inclusive, safe and enjoyable for everyone. Supporters are encouraged to play their part in keeping discrimination out of the game.
Anyone who experiences or witnesses a football-related hate crime should make a formal report by calling 101 or using the Live Chat service on the West Midlands Police website. For more information on how to report discrimination at Molineux, please click here.
On a home matchday, supporters can report racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory or antisocial behaviour by speaking to a matchday steward or texting the Not In Our Pack text line on 07723 479887, starting the message with WOLVES.
