Crystal Palace is facing misconduct charges from the Football Association (FA) following a controversial banner displayed by their fans during their Premier League match against Nottingham Forest on August 24. The banner, unfurled at Selhurst Park, depicted Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis holding a gun to the head of Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White.
The banner also included the words: "Mr. Marinakis is NOT involved in blackmail, match-fixing, drug trafficking or corruption". These words are believed to be a satirical jab at Marinakis, who has consistently denied any wrongdoing in relation to such allegations.
The FA's charge alleges that Crystal Palace failed to ensure their spectators "didn't behave in an improper, offensive, abusive, insulting and/or provocative way". While the FA statement does not explicitly mention the banner as the reason for the charge, the timing strongly suggests a connection. The FA has strict rules regarding messaging containing defamatory, political, and offensive slogans.
Tensions between Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest have been simmering for months. Both clubs were vying for a spot in this season's Europa League. Palace initially secured a place after a surprising FA Cup victory against Manchester City in May. However, UEFA ultimately ruled that Forest would enter the competition at Palace's expense. This decision stemmed from concerns about Crystal Palace's previous co-owner, John Textor, holding a controlling interest in Lyon, another team that had qualified for the Europa League. UEFA's multi-club ownership rules prohibit two clubs with the same owner from participating in the same competition.
Marinakis had reportedly written to UEFA to raise concerns about Palace's ownership structure. The atmosphere surrounding the August match between the two clubs was highly charged. The game ended in a 1-1 draw.
Adding another layer to the saga, Morgan Gibbs-White was the subject of transfer speculation during the summer window. Tottenham Hotspur reportedly triggered a £60 million release clause, but Gibbs-White ultimately signed a new contract to stay at Forest.
The incident has sparked debate among football fans and pundits. Some have condemned the banner as offensive and inappropriate, while others have defended it as an expression of fan frustration. The FA will now investigate the matter and determine the appropriate course of action. Crystal Palace will have the opportunity to respond to the charges. Potential punishments range from a fine to a partial stadium closure.
