News: Together Against Racism

The Hornets are pleased to support the EFL’s Together Against Racism campaign.

Ahead of our next home match against Blackburn Rovers (Saturday October 26), and to mark both the campaign and Black History Month, we’re delighted to be launching the first in a series of podcasts titled ‘Watford’s Black Pioneers’. The series will explore the journeys of black footballers connected to our club and tell their own stories of their lives, heritage, careers and their own lived experiences of racism and of growing up in an industry long exposed to prejudice. Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for more details.

Watford is for everyone, and we are proud of the welcoming atmosphere that you create at Vicarage Road every matchday. However, every season, there are hundreds of reports of discrimination across the game, and likely more that go unrecorded. Whether you’re a player, manager, watching in the stands or at home – your voice matters. Our voices are a powerful tool for change - when we speak up, come together and use our voices we can drive change.

A man who used his voice to champion equality and inclusion in football and beyond was the founder of anti-discrimination charity, Kick It Out, Lord Ouseley, who sadly passed away earlier this month. He dedicated his life to fighting racism and promoting diversity and significant strides have been made in tackling discrimination, thanks to his work.

Racism will not be tolerated and we stand together to remove it from our game. We will take swift and firm action against anyone identified in making racist or discriminatory behaviour, working with the relevant authorities to ensure perpetrators face club sanctions and police action. The EFL stands side by side with clubs, players, managers and supporters in a zero-tolerance approach to tackling racism in our game.

Every incident has an impact on our supporters’ long-held reputation for being among the most tolerant and inclusive fanbases in the game.

To report an incident, please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. 

If you prefer, you can also email details to wecampaign@watfordfc.com.

The same details are in use at all Watford FC men’s and women’s home and away matches, as well as at Community Trust events.

Together with the other footballing bodies, we will continue to make football a safer, more welcoming and enjoyable space for everyone. Watford FC and all of football stands Together Against Racism and all forms of discrimination.