Explained: Why Arsenal banned 24 supporters during 2023-24 season

The Gunners have disclosed information surrounding 24 bans that were handed out to supporters for abusive and discriminatory behaviour during the 2023-24 season. Twenty-one of the bans were for in-stadium offences, while the remaining three were for online abuse.

The supporters were all banned for at least one year, with 14 given three-year bans. This means they won't be able to attend any Arsenal match, home or away, during this period. The club, who finished second in the Premier League to Manchester City, revealed in-stadium offences included assault (10 fans banned), tragedy chanting (five), offensive gestures (two), racism (two), homophobia (one) and sexual assault (one). The online offences that resulted in three bans included racism, antisemitism and sending abusive messages.

Richard Garlick, Arsenal's Managing Director, said: "Abuse and discrimination will not be tolerated. We will continue to take strong action alongside our partners such as the Met Police against this abhorrent behaviour.

"We know it's a small minority, but that won’t stop us from taking action against abusers who are identified as Arsenal season ticket holders or members, and escalating to the police where appropriate.

"Our aim is to create an environment at Arsenal where everybody feels welcome. We hope continued action serves as a deterrent for those using abusive, threatening, and discriminatory language."

Arsenal are working with data science company Signify Group to tackle targeted online abuse, using their specialist Threat Matrix to detect and report content aimed at players and coaches. The club noted online abuse among its members declined 90% on the 2022-23 season, but there was a 24% increase in online abuse that targeted players and coaches last season.

Arsenal fans will return to the Emirates Stadium this Saturday for the 2024-25 season opener at home to Wolves.