Portsmouth, UK — Portsmouth Football Club is under investigation following a series of fan‑related incidents at home matches that have drawn attention from both media and authorities, raising concerns about safety and spectator conduct at Fratton Park.
Most recently, Saturday’s Championship fixture against West Bromwich Albion was briefly halted after an assistant referee was struck in the eye by a piece of chewing gum thrown from the crowd at Fratton Park. Match officials paused the game with around ten minutes remaining while the situation was assessed, although play resumed and Portsmouth went on to record a 3–0 victory. The club has appealed for witnesses and acknowledged that disciplinary action, including possible charges from the Football Association (FA), could follow.
This incident adds to a pattern of troubling behaviour at recent home games. During the high‑profile south coast derby against Southampton at Fratton Park earlier in January, police arrested three people after pyrotechnics and other projectiles were thrown from the stands. A ball attendant suffered injury after an object detonated near him, prompting immediate medical attention — an episode condemned by both Portsmouth FC and Hampshire Police.
The club has repeatedly urged supporters to act responsibly and has a zero‑tolerance policy toward anti‑social conduct, warning that individuals identified as throwing objects or entering the pitch could face ejection, banning orders and possible police action.
Portsmouth’s recent form on the pitch has been encouraging, with the team moving clear of the Championship relegation zone. However, the off‑field issues threaten to overshadow these results, as officials and fan groups alike stress the need for improved behaviour to ensure safety for players, staff, referees and all fans attending matches.
The FA typically reviews crowd conduct and can issue sanctions to clubs for failing to control spectators, meaning Portsmouth could face further scrutiny or penalties if repeat offences occur.
