AFC Rushden & Diamonds can confirm that we have received written confirmation from The Football Association that the Club will face no charge in relation to the abandonment of our fixture against Coventry Sphinx in November 2025. The FA has advised that the matter is now considered closed.
The match was abandoned following a sexist comment made by an individual spectator towards the female match official. The Club reiterate that such behaviour is completely unacceptable and has no place in football or in society.
While we fully acknowledge our responsibility for the conduct of our own supporters, it is very difficult to prevent a single individual acting in an unreasonable and unacceptable manner without prior warning. As such, all at AFC Rushden & Diamonds are pleased with the outcome of the FA’s investigation and will continue to work proactively to uphold the standards and values expected of our Club. We remain fully committed to supporting match officials and promoting a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for all participants in the game.
We will now work with Coventry Sphinx FC to find a date for the rearranged fixture, which will be communicated in due course.
