Following Leeds United’s 2-1 Sky Bet Championship victory over Sunderland AFC at Elland Road on Monday 17 February 2025, Ethan Ampadu and Largie Ramazani were subjected to racial abuse from an individual in the away section as they left the pitch.

A Sunderland AFC supporter has now been issued with both a banning order and fine following the incident.

West Yorkshire Police have today released the below statement:

‘A man has been banned from attending football matches for three years after he pleaded guilty to racially aggravated offending at Elland Road.

Steven Patterson, aged 68, of Stranton Street in Bishop Auckland was also fined £346 with a cost of £85 and a surcharge of £138 when he appeared before County and Durham Magistrates yesterday (Wednesday).

Patterson was charged following an incident at the Leeds United v Sunderland game earlier this year.

He was seen by officers making a monkey gesture at the Leeds players as they were leaving the pitch following the game on Monday, 17 February.

The incident was reported to the referee who subsequently reported the matter to the police.’

Leeds United Football Club, Ethan Ampadu and Largie Ramazani would all like to thank West Yorkshire Police for their support in this matter.

There is no room for racism in football or society.