This was published 7 months ago
Nazi-saluting soccer fan slapped with two-year ban as police investigate
By Vince Rugari
A spectator who performed a Nazi salute at last month’s Sydney A-League derby has been banned from attending matches for two years and could yet be subject to criminal charges.
Football Australia says it has concluded an investigation into the incident after broadcast cameras captured the man – who has been identified as a well-known member of the Western Sydney Wanderers’ main active support group, the Red and Black Bloc – making the gesture at Allianz Stadium on April 13.
A man appears to give a Nazi salute at the Sydney A-League derby last month.Credit: Channel 10
“As the governing body of football in Australia, we hold a firm stance against any form of racist and/or anti-social behaviour,” an FA spokesperson said.
“The actions of this individual not only breached the A-League Terms of Admission and our Spectator Code of Behaviour but fundamentally contradicted the values of respect and inclusivity that Football Australia stands for.
“We are committed to ensuring that football remains a sport that unites communities and offers a safe and respectful environment for all.”
The ban is for all matches sanctioned by FA, including Socceroos, Matildas, A-Leagues, Australia Cup, and National Premier Leagues fixtures, as well as the yet-to-be-established National Second Tier, which is launching next year.
NSW Police confirmed to this masthead that their own investigation into the incident was ongoing and that no arrests had yet been made.
The man was caught by Network 10’s cameras holding his middle finger up in the air before raising his right hand in what was widely interpreted as a Nazi salute.
It has been illegal to perform the Nazi salute in NSW since mid-2022, while similar laws passed by the federal parliament came into effect in January.
Three other soccer fans faced court last month after being charged with knowingly displaying a Nazi symbol in public without reasonable excuse at the Australia Cup final between Sydney United 58 FC and Macarthur FC at CommBank Stadium in October 2022. One of the men was handed a lifetime ban by FA.
Sports news, results and expert commentary. Sign up for our Sport newsletter.