The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and Gotham FC are investigating after “hateful language” was directed at Orlando Pride’s forward Barbra Banda during Sunday’s match between the sides.
Gotham said that after the incident had been reported, stadium security “directly addressed” an individual and monitored “the situation for the remainder of the match”.
The club and the NWSL said they were working together to look further into the matter and “take additional action where appropriate”, with Gotham adding they had apologised to Banda. Both clubs and the league described the behaviour as “unacceptable”.
A statement from the NWSL said: “The National Women’s Soccer League is aware of an incident involving hateful language directed at Barbra Banda during this weekend’s match between Gotham FC and Orlando Pride.
“We are united in our message: this behaviour is unacceptable and has no place in our league or in our stadiums. Gotham FC and the NWSL are working together to further investigate the incident and take additional action where appropriate under the league’s fan code of conduct.
“We are committed to ensuring that our venues are safe and respectful environments for all – especially for the athletes who represent the very best of our sport. Barbra Banda is both an exceptional player and person, and the NWSL is immensely proud to support her as a member of our league.
“As a league, we remain committed to holding individuals accountable for conduct that violates our standards and values, and to reinforcing the inclusive spirit of the NWSL community.”
Gotham issued a similar statement, which said: “Stadium security swiftly responded to the incident once it was reported and directly addressed the individual, monitoring the situation for the remainder of the match.
“Gotham FC leaders on Monday reached out to the Orlando Pride to apologise for the incident and reiterate our unwavering support of Barbra Banda.”
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In their statement Orlando Pride, who won Sunday’s game 2-0, said: “Barbra is an outstanding role model and an influential advocate for soccer both in African and her in the United States. We look forward to continuing to celebrate and support her on and off the pitch.
“As a club, the Pride will collaborate with the NWSL and with Gotham to ensure that the proper action is taken to hold individuals accountable when violating the league’s standards.”
Banda, a 25-year-old Zambia international, last year scored 17 goals to help Orlando Pride win the NWSL.