NJ/NY Gotham FC has banned a supporter from future matches and revoked their season ticket for using hateful language toward Orlando Pride's Barbra Banda last week.
The club announced Wednesday it had conducted an investigation into the incident and concluded that the fan violated the NWSL Fan Code of Conduct.
"Following reports of an incident during our March 23 match vs. the Orlando Pride, Gotham FC conducted a thorough investigation in collaboration with the NWSL, staff and stadium security," Gotham said.
"We interviewed numerous witnesses, including fans and stadium, team and league personnel, and reviewed stadium security footage and security logs. The club found that a fan violated the NWSL Fan Code of Conduct. As such, Gotham FC has revoked their season tickets, and the fan has been banned from future Gotham FC matches and events.
"Threatening, abusive or discriminatory behavior or language of any kind has no place at Gotham FC events. Our club and the NWSL are committed to creating a welcoming, safe and enjoyable matchday experience for all players, staff and fans."
Gotham said following the game that "stadium security swiftly responded" to the reported incident at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, the team's home venue. An individual was "directly addressed" and security "[monitored] the situation for the remainder of the match."
Neither the clubs nor the league specified the nature of the language used following the incident.
"We are committed to ensuring that our venues are safe and respectful environments for all -- especially for the athletes who represent the very best of our sport," the NWSL said in its statement at the time.
"Barbra Banda is both an exceptional player and person, and the NWSL is immensely proud to support her as a member of our league."
