Three fans arrested at Brighton vs Chelsea over alleged homophobic and racist incidents

Three fans were arrested at Brighton vs Chelsea, two for homophobic abuse and one for racist abuse (COURTESY)

Brighton and Hove Albion have confirmed three supporters were arrested over separate incidents of alleged abuse during their 1-1 draw with Chelsea on New Year's Day.

Two Brighton fans were ejected, one for alleged racist abuse of Chelsea players and another for alleged homophobic abuse aimed at supporters whilst a Chelsea fan in the away end was ejected for homophobic abuse aimed at home fans.

A club statement from Brighton read : "Yet again it is with regret that we report the ejection of two home supporters — one for racist abuse of Chelsea players and one for homophobic abuse aimed at Chelsea supporters.

"One visiting supporter was also ejected by club stewards for homophobic abuse aimed at home supporters. All three were arrested by Sussex Police outside the stadium and now face prosecution."

Chief executive and deputy chairman Paul Barber said, “Yet again our safety and stewarding team, along with Sussex Police, have had to deal with three separate and unwanted instances of disgusting racist and homophobic abuse.

“If the prospect of a life ban from watching their clubs play football isn’t a strong enough deterrent, we have to ask the question as to whether the courts should be given the power to hand out more severe punishments? Football can only do so much, and we are sick and tired of the game’s reputation being tarnished by these people.

"I find it impossible to comprehend how and why some individuals think it's acceptable to behave in this way, and yet again I will make it very clear that neither Brighton & Hove Albion nor the wider football community, will tolerate racism, homophobia, or any other form of discrimination at any time.

"We would urge any fans confronted with similar discriminatory behaviour at our stadium to report it immediately, either directly to a steward or via our anonymous hotline, and we will continue to take the strongest possible action against such bigoted individuals. These people are not welcome at the Amex or at any football matches."

Two Wolves fans were arrested on suspicion of homophobic abuse at their game at Brighton last month.

Chelsea's recent clash with Tottenham was also overshadowed by alleged racist abuse directed at Antonio Rudiger.