Torquay apologise after fine for racist abuse

Torquay United are fourth in National League South

Torquay United have reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on racism after receiving a £2,500 FA fine for abuse directed at a Weston-super-Mare player in April 2024.

Torquay accepted the ruling and issued an unreserved apology to Reuben Reid, who now plays for Weymouth, as they confirmed they have been formally warned as to their future conduct.

Co-chairman Michael Westcott said: "Zero tolerance means zero tolerance—racist or abusive behaviour has no place at Plainmoor."

In a club statement, Torquay confirmed the individual responsible has been banned for life from all home and away games.

As part of the FA's requirements, the club will introduce strengthened stewarding, enhanced staff training, and clearer routes to report discriminatory behaviour, as well as an anonymous text service.

Westcott sent a warning to all supporters saying, "we will remove your ticket, eject you from the ground and ban you for life.

"We will do everything in our power to ensure players, officials and fans can enjoy football in safety and with respect."

Although the incident took place before the arrival of the Bryn Consortium, a group of of local businessmen and long-time fans who took over last year, the club said their responsibility to act "is absolute."