Chelsea Football Club is preparing to contact fans and warn them of potential bans after a section of supporters directed sectarian chants during the team's 3-2 victory against Fulham at Craven Cottage on August 25, 2026.
The chant, reportedly including the phrase "F*** the Pope and the IRA," was heard from the away section during the west London derby. The club is aware of the song, which appears to reference a connection between some Chelsea supporters and Glasgow Rangers fans. This particular chant is understood to have seen a resurgence recently.
Chelsea officials plan to identify individuals who purchased tickets for the match and email them, requesting that such chants cease. The club is expected to make clear that any fan found repeating the offense will face a ban from attending future matches. The Football Association is also reportedly aware of the incident.