Bolton Wanderers would like to reiterate the expected standards of behaviour from Whites’ supporters on match days, particularly when travelling to away fixtures.
Unfortunately, as a consequence of ongoing disorder from a small minority of fans when visiting opposition grounds this season, the club has now been warned and sanctioned by the FA as part of their new measures to tackle anti-social behaviour.
This is costing the club both financially and reputationally and is incredibly disappointing when so much is being done by so many to ensure Bolton Wanderers is a stable and sustainable football club, continuing its positive journey forwards.
In a move to further combat behaviour that disrupts and endangers fellow football fans, the club has developed its own new Fan Sanction Policy that provides transparency around the penalties that will be imposed to fans who breach the guidelines set out in the document.
The club will now consult with the Bolton Wanderers Supporters’ Trust with a view to finalising and subsequently publishing this policy.
This policy will clearly outline the sanctions that will be related to offences including the use of pyrotechnics, missile throwing, pitch incursion, aggression towards staff and the use of discriminatory language and behaviour, amongst others.
Neil Hart, Chief Executive Officer at Bolton Wanderers said: “We are urging supporters to consider their behaviour, particularly when attending away games, where most of these issues are arising.
“A small minority are spoiling the experience for other supporters and causing ongoing difficulties for the club which is, otherwise, in a fantastic position.
“We ask all fans to please enjoy upcoming games in a way that represents the very best of Bolton Wanderers.”
The club acknowledges that the majority of fans are fantastic ambassadors of the Wanderers. However, those who persist in their disregard of the safety and wellbeing of other fans are urged to reconsider their approach to matchdays - and to understand that the club will take decisive action against those who breach the safety guidelines in place to ensure that everyone can enjoy matchdays both home and away.