The Imps can provide an update after the club were fined by the Football Association.
We have been fined by the Football Association for failing to control our supporters during the Carabao Cup fixture against Chelsea. This is specifically relating to chanting of a homophobic nature aimed at away supporters. We know Chelsea fans at the game were affected by the chanting and as a club we apologise unreservedly to Chelsea and their fans.
We have been fined £16,000. This follows the £8,500 fine which was imposed following two proven instances of discriminatory chanting at the fixture against Wrexham at the final league game of last season. The Action Plan which was imposed following the chants against Wrexham has now been extended until the end of the 2026/27 season.
We remain firmly committed to eradicating negative behaviour through a combination of education and sanctions. We believe these approaches can work together to bring about the positive change we all desire. We recognise our responsibility to reflect upon our own processes, and continuously improve these.
The atmosphere created by the overwhelming majority of our fans this season has been incredible, as we’ve seen time and time again - not least with our largest home crowd of the season at Thursday’s game against Burton Albion
We are dismayed that we find ourselves in a position that a very small minority have acted in a way which has severe consequences for the club and matchgoing fans. Anyone considering acting in such a way should be clear that it has never been and never will be welcome at Lincoln City.
Lincoln City Football Club
Below is a response co-signed by a number of supporters organisations
As Lincoln City fans we have taken great pride in the atmosphere created by fellow supporters this season. There is no doubt that the backing from our fellow Imps has had a huge positive impact on and off the pitch.
We want to be as clear as we can be that all are welcome in the Imps family and that there is never a place among our fanbase for any discriminatory actions. These FA charges relate to homophobic chanting - this is never acceptable. We believe we can make the LNER Stadium a truly impressive - and intimidating - venue to come without ever having to resort to such chants.
A second financial fine for the club this season takes money away from areas we would much rather see investment - whether on the team or facilities to improve our matchdays and drive the club forward.
As we enter a key part of the season we want to give the players and staff the support the first half of the campaign deserves. Let’s play our part and make it a season to remember.
#ImpsAsOne
Fan Advisory Board, Lincoln City Banter, Red Imps Community Trust, Vital Lincoln City, 617 Squadron