West Midlands Police removed an offensive banner aimed at late Leicester City boss Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha that had been placed on the motorway ahead of the Championship game against Coventry City banner.
Several photos have emerged on social media showing the message plastered on the M69, which Leicester City fans traveled to watch the match at lunch on Saturday.
Some banners showed images of helicopters and offensive messages to mock Srivaddhanaprabha, who died along with four others in a helicopter crash shortly after taking off from the King Power Stadium in September 2018.
West Midlands Police removed the offensive banner from the motorway after being notified of it and warned fans about the legislation.
Coventry City Football Club Police, a unit of West Midlands Police, posted on X (formerly Twitter): “I hope it won’t be necessary, but I feel the minority, and I emphasize the minority, need prompt reminders. There is legislation in place covering tragic slogans, including the display of offensive banners.”
Both clubs were quick to condemn the abuse and will work with police to identify those responsible and take action, including banning anyone found to be involved.
Coventry issued a statement on
“Coventry City will work with West Midlands Police to identify those producing and displaying these banners and take appropriate action against them. This type of behavior has no place in football and society and our These people are not welcome at the football club and will be subject to bans.”
A spokesman for Leicester City said: “The Football Club notes with disappointment the disrespectful behavior of a small number of opposition supporters, mocking a tragedy that has deeply affected our club and community. This behavior is in line with the values of respect and solidarity that football should embody. sharp contrast.
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“We would like to thank Coventry City Football Club and the wider football community for standing with us in condemning these actions and bringing this incident to the attention of the relevant authorities. We will work with all parties to support the identification and appropriate identification of those involved. Respond.”
This is not the first time banners have been used to taunt rival fans at a ‘M69 derby’, with some Leicester City fans previously displaying banners on the same motorway after a 2-1 win over Coventry City in August.
