He was also fined £1,000
A man who wore an offensive t-shirt to reference the Hillsborough disaster at the FA Cup final has been banned from football games for four years.
James White, 33, pleaded guilty in front of Willesden Magistrates’ Court on Monday to displaying threatening or abusive writing likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.
The Independent reported that White smiled and laughed after the banning order was made and was subsequently fined £1,000 and ordered to pay a surcharge of £400 and £85 in costs.
White was spotted at Wembley wearing the shirt, which featured the number 97 and ‘not enough’ in reference to the victims of the 1989 tragedy at Wembley Stadium on June 3.
The image went viral across social media and was widely condemned online.
In response to the picture, a statement from the Football Association read: “The FA strongly condemns the actions of the individual who wore a shirt referencing the Hillsborough disaster ahead of the Emirates FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium.
“We saw a photograph of the offensive shirt on social media and immediately started working to identify the perpetrator.
“Our security team were able to quickly locate the individual based on the image, and we welcome the swift action which was then taken by the police.
“We will not tolerate abuse relating to Hillsborough or any football tragedy at Wembley Stadium and we will continue to work with the authorities to ensure strong action is taken against perpetrators.”
22 others were also arrested on the day of the final between Manchester City and Manchester United for offences such as affray, assault, possession of drugs and drunk and disorderly behaviour.
Related links:
- Football fan arrested for wearing ’97 not enough’ shirt at FA Cup final
- Man charged over ’97 not enough’ football shirt at FA Cup final
- Victor Lindelof hit by object during Man United goal celebrations
