Hull City Confirm Arrests After Homophobic Chanting Disrupts FA Cup Clash Against Chelsea at MKM Stadium in Hull

It was meant to be a big FA Cup night under the lights at the MKM Stadium. Instead, it turned uncomfortable.

Hull City confirmed during their defeat to Chelsea that arrests had been made following reports of homophobic chanting from a section of the home support.

The Championship club addressed the issue while the match was still being played, making it clear they were not prepared to let it slide.

Earlier in the evening, a small group of fans were reportedly heard directing the chant “Chelsea Rent Boys” toward the away supporters gathered behind one of the goals — a phrase that has long been condemned in English football for its homophobic undertones.

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Club Issues Stadium Warning Before Arrests Follow

During the first half, Hull issued a firm message across the stadium screens and PA system.

“There has been discriminatory chanting from inside the stadium.

This is unacceptable and must cease immediately,” the statement read.

Supporters were urged to report any further incidents to stewards immediately.

When the chanting continued, the club escalated matters.

In the 64th minute, a further announcement confirmed that arrests had been made inside the ground.

That update sent a clear message — this was not going to be brushed off as “banter.”

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Managers Respond as Focus Shifts Beyond Football

After the game, attention inevitably turned from the result to the behaviour in the stands.

Hull manager Sergej Jakirovic said he hadn’t personally heard the chanting but was unequivocal in his stance.

“There’s no place for it in the stadium or in public,” he said. “There is no place for it. It’s not good.”

Liam Rosenior, speaking separately, echoed the sentiment.

While he admitted he didn’t know the full details, he described the language as unacceptable and said he hoped it would be dealt with appropriately.

He added that the fourth official had mentioned the issue during the match.

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Football’s Ongoing Battle With Discriminatory Abuse

Incidents like this are not isolated. English football authorities, including the FA and the Premier League, have been working for years alongside campaigns such as Rainbow Laces to stamp out discriminatory behaviour in stadiums.

Clubs are under increasing pressure to act quickly and visibly when abuse occurs, and Hull’s in-game announcements reflect how seriously such matters are now treated.

Stadium bans, police action and even criminal charges can follow where discriminatory abuse crosses the legal threshold.

The chant directed at Chelsea has been the subject of repeated warnings in recent seasons, with both clubs and governing bodies making it clear that homophobic language will not be tolerated.

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A Night That Should Have Been About the Cup

Unfortunately for Hull, the controversy overshadowed what was already a difficult evening on the pitch.

FA Cup ties are traditionally moments for unity and passion, especially under the lights at home grounds like the MKM Stadium.

Instead, a small minority shifted the spotlight away from football and onto behaviour that many believe has no place in the modern game.

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What’s Next?

Hull are expected to cooperate fully with authorities as investigations continue.

The individuals arrested could face stadium bans, club sanctions, or further legal consequences depending on the outcome of police inquiries.

The FA may also review reports from match officials before deciding whether any additional action is required.

Clubs across the country will likely continue reinforcing anti-discrimination messaging, particularly as knockout competitions draw bigger crowds and heightened emotions.

For Hull, the priority now will be restoring focus to football while ensuring that future home matches remain inclusive and welcoming environments.

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Summary

Hull City confirmed arrests during their FA Cup defeat to Chelsea after a small group of supporters were heard chanting homophobic language inside the MKM Stadium.

The club issued warnings during the match before confirming police action in the second half.

Managers condemned the behaviour, describing it as unacceptable.

The incident highlights football’s continued effort to eliminate discriminatory chanting, with potential bans and sanctions likely to follow as investigations continue.