Sport
Salford City apologise to Bradford City following ‘shameful’ tragedy remark made by staff member on social media
There is simply no place for this in football.
Danny Jones -
16th May 2023 
Salford City FC have issued an apology to Bradford City AFC after an offensive remark relating to a historic club tragedy was posted on social media.
A member of the Greater Manchester side’s “casual matchday staff” was reported to online and to the club after making reference to the Valley Parade Fire, a disaster which took place at Bradford’s home stadium back in 1985 where 56 people tragically died.
Issuing a statement after the disgusting joke, Salford informed fans that they had been made aware of the comment, adding that “an internal disciplinary procedure will now commence and appropriate sanctions made.”
The League Two club, who could be set to face Bradford in the playoff final, assured that they “do not tolerate the misuse of social media by staff, particularly to make such references to what was a terrible tragedy.”
The club went on to offer their “sincerest and deepest apologies to Bradford City AFC, its supporters, and the families and friends of victims of the Valley Parade fire tragedy”, adding that “no further comment will be made” at this time while the investigation is still ongoing.
As for Bradford themselves, while fans have obviously been left disgusted, dubbing the comment as “shameful” and “appalling”, the Bantams have not yet issued any form of official response and simply retweeted Salford’s apology.
The offensive comments themslves are still visible online after being reshared by angry fans and neutrals alike, with many calling for more action when it comes to this kind of abuse.
Trigger warning — may cause upset:
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It was only back in March when Manchester United and Liverpool managers, Erik ten Hag and Jurgen Klopp, issued a joint message urging for fans to bring an end to ‘tragedy chanting’, as numerous clubs have been targeted by this offensive behaviour down the years.
Sadly, many different teams throughout world football have suffered historic disasters and given the tribalistic nature of fans, mocking them online and in innapropriate chants sang inside stadiums is a problem that is yet to be eradicated from the game.
No one should ever go to a football match and not go home, nor should it be the subject of cruel humour.
Our thoughts go out to Bradford City fans and those affected by the remarks.
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Featured Image — James Boyes/Steve Walker (via Flickr)
