An Everton fan who shouted racist abuse at Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah and mocked the Heysel Stadium disaster has been banned from football matches for three years.
The 26-year-old Everton fan pleaded guilty to racially or religiously aggravated harassment, causing alarm or distress by words or writing.
Joel Barwise also made insensitive gestures mocking the Heysel stadium disaster, a tragic event in 1985 that claimed the lives of 39 fans in a crush before the European Cup final.
The repercussions for Barwise were severe as he appeared before Sefton Magistrates’ Court.
The court issued a three-year banning order, preventing him from attending football matches, and imposed a £500 fine.
BBC Sport🗣️:
— Football Bet Club (@FtblBetClub) February 14, 2024
An Everton fan who shouted racist abuse about Mohamed Salah and also mocked the Heysel stadium disaster has been banned from attending any football match for 3 years.
He got asked why would you say such awful comments he said: "Because I'm an idiot."
(BBC) pic.twitter.com/4gJkKebTfs
Merseyside Police, aided by CCTV footage, swiftly tracked him down, leading to his subsequent arrest.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) detailed how Barwise was identified by a match steward who witnessed the racist abuse and offensive gestures.
Barwise’s actions, described as “disgraceful” by Senior Crown Prosecutor Angela Conlan, have prompted a banning order that extends beyond mere stadium restrictions, sending a clear message that such conduct will not be tolerated.
She said: “Joel Barwise no doubt thinks of himself as a loyal Everton fan but his actions bring shame to his club.
“He made fun of a tragic football disaster and shouted racist abuse when a key Liverpool player’s name was announced.”
When international matches take place abroad, Barwise is required to surrender his passport, restricting his ability to participate in football events beyond the UK borders.
Initially attempting to evade responsibility by claiming mistaken identity, Barwise eventually admitted his actions, offering a feeble excuse: “Because I’m an idiot.”
