Imps fined for sectarian chanting
Lincoln City FC Chief Executive Liam Scully has issued a message to fans after the Imps were fined by Football Association.
Hello Lincoln understands the fine was imposed for anti-Catholic chanting aimed at Wrexham FC winger James McLean footballer at the end of last season.
Liam’s update also includes an invite to fans to be part of the discussions on how to avoid similar incidents in future and the resulting financial implications for the club.
To all Lincoln City fans,
I am writing to share the disappointing news that the Football Association has fined us for failing to control our supporters during the final home game of the 2024/25 season when we played Wrexham. We are also in ongoing dialogue with the FA regarding similar alleged behaviour during our Carabao Cup fixture against Chelsea last month.
Following two proven instances of discriminatory chanting at the Wrexham fixture, we have been fined £8,500. This charge also includes the finding that we did not adequately address the chanting at the time. As part of this, we have been issued an Action Plan that must be adhered to throughout the 2025/26 season. Failure to do so could result in additional sanctions.
We accept the charge, recognise our responsibility, and 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.
These incidents also come against a backdrop of increasing levels of antagonistic and, at times, anti-social behaviour at matches, both home and away. We have had repeated instances where supporters have left games due to smoke inhalation from smoke bombs and cases of stewarding staff being attacked.
It is vital we continue to work together to create a safe, inclusive, and positive matchday atmosphere that inspires our team and makes everyone proud to be part of Lincoln City.
We are currently in discussions regarding potential remedial measures, some of which may be imposed upon us and others that we may choose to implement ourselves, to best manage and prevent such behaviour. These could include stricter controls over away ticket sales, the partial closure of certain sections of the stadium (such as elements of lower block 7 in the GBM Stand) and further increases in our operational costs due to the need for additional CCTV, barriers, stewards and safety personnel.
Ultimately, these fines, the additional operating costs, and any lost revenue must be funded, and that can only be achieved by reducing expenditure elsewhere within the club. These incidents have real and damaging financial consequences.
We do not wish to sterilise the phenomenal atmosphere that our supporters create at home and away. We encourage passion and energy, but we must be clear that these positive qualities are not incompatible with respect and inclusivity. Our goal is to ensure that the atmosphere remains vibrant, friendly, and welcoming to all.
To support this, we will be hosting an online forum at 7pm on Wednesday, 19 November, dedicated to discussing these matters and exploring constructive solutions together.
To register your interest in attending the online forum, please email
Thank you, as always, for your support. #ImpsAsOne
Liam Scully
Chief Executive
Picture: Vaughan Photography