It is reported that the former manager of EFL league two side, Crawley Town, John Yems, has had his initial 17-months’ suspension from football extended to three years, following an FA appeal and an independent regulatory commission finding him guilty of 11, out of 15, charges for the use of discriminatory language towards his players, on top of the one charge that he initially admitted. It is understood that Mr Yems is suspended from all football-related activity, including management, until January 2026.
After branding the initial suspension of 17 months a ‘slap in the face’, it is reported that Kick It Out’s chief executive, Tony Burnett welcomed the this news, thanking the Football Association “for ensuring that justice prevails in the case and commend the immense courage of the victims throughout this extremely difficult process”, and went on to add that "Strong sanctions are crucial in sending out a message that racist, Islamophobic and discriminatory language will not be tolerated in football.”
The extension to Mr Yems’ ban, which is understood to be the longest ever ban for the use of discriminatory language in English football was also described by Tony Burnett as a “landmark moment” and hoped that it will enable more victims subject to discrimination to come forward, and that punishments will be issued.
The Equality Act 2010 prohibits discrimination against individuals because of their race, amongst a number of other protected characteristics.
If you feel that you have experienced discrimination, and would like some advice on the matter, you can speak to a member of our experienced specialist discrimination team on 0161 696 6170 for guidance.
By Thomas Yates, employment and discrimination advisor
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