The Leeds United Supporters’ Network(LUSN) wishes to formally respond to recent correspondence and public commentary concerning events at the recent fixture involving Leeds United F.C..

First and foremost, LUSN fully supports equality, inclusion and respect within football. We recognise the importance of religious observance and the need for sensitivity around such matters. However, the subsequent public narrative surrounding this incident has been incomplete, unbalanced, and in several respects inaccurate.

1. Stewarding and Matchday Management

It is our understanding that insufficient communication and coordination from the club contributed to confusion in the stadium. Greater clarity from Leeds United F.C. and match officials prior to and during the fixture could have mitigated misunderstanding and reduced the reaction witnessed.

2. Crowd Reaction Misrepresented

It is incorrect to suggest that the reaction came solely from Leeds United supporters. Audio and broadcast footage indicate that any audible booing was not confined to one section of the ground. The public characterisation of this as an issue attributable to “Leeds fans”is therefore misleading.

3. Broadcast Scheduling Considerations

Broadcasters were reportedly aware of the potential need to accommodate fasting requirements. There was opportunity within the broadcast schedule to implement a short delay (approximately 15 minutes) which may have prevented disruption during active play. This option was not taken. That context has not been acknowledged in subsequent commentary.

4. Lack of Consultation

Despite statements implying dialogue with supporter bodies, neither LUSN nor other recognised Leeds United fan groups were consulted by the Football Supporters' Association or Kick It Out prior to public statements being issued. Any suggestion that supporter groups were engaged in forming those responses is incorrect.

5. Timing and Tone of Public Statements

The statement issued by Kick It Out approximately one hour after full-time attributed blame to “some Leeds fans” We question whether a representative was present at the match and whether a more measured, fact-based assessment would have been more constructive. Rapid, reactive statements risk inflaming rather than resolving situations.

6. Context Omitted

No reference was made to wider context, including discussion following the reverse fixture at Etihad Stadium last November, where second-half events prompted widespread debate about competitive integrity, tactical pauses, and perceived advantage. For many supporters, reactions were influenced by that prior experience. Ignoring this context oversimplifies a complex situation.

7. Competitive and Regulatory Questions

There remains a legitimate question as to whether the participation of all 11 players in such pauses is clearly defined within competition regulations, or whether it can be construed — rightly or wrongly — as creating an unintended competitive advantage. This topic was widely debated following the Etihad fixture. Supporters expressing views on such matters falls within the bounds of freedom of expression, provided it does not cross into discriminatory conduct.

The issues at hand have been conflated. A complex scenario involving scheduling, communication, competitive fairness, religious observance, and supporter reaction has been reduced to a simplified narrative that places blame squarely on “some Leeds fans” That portrayal does not accurately reflect the full picture.

We are concerned about the precedent set when national organisations issue statements without consulting local supporter groups and without fully establishing facts. Oversimplification risks deepening division and undermining trust between supporters and governing bodies.

LUSN remains committed to constructive dialogue with clubs, governing authorities, and equality organisations. We urge all parties to approach sensitive matters with balance, thorough consultation, and a willingness to consider the broader context.

Football thrives on passion, diversity and debate. Those values must be protected responsibly and fairly for all.

Leeds United Supporters Network Committee Board  - Wednesday 4th March 2026

Image Courtesy of Express Newspapers