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Ipswich fans have said they are “disgusted and ashamed” after the Reform Party leader, Nigel Farage, was able to stage a photo opportunity at Portman Road on Monday.
Many some supporters criticised the club on social media with one describing it as “PR suicide for a family club”. Another fan, Alex, told the Press Association he was disgusted and ashamed at what had happened, adding: “It is a slap in the face to supporters and players, past and present.”
On Tuesday afternoon the club said: “Following Monday’s visit by the Reform party and its leader, Nigel Farage, the club would like to issue the following statement: Ipswich Town Football Club has, over several years, hosted representatives from a range of political parties. The club remains apolitical and does not support or endorse any individual or party.
“The club will continue to engage with representatives from across the political spectrum as part of its role within the community. Ipswich Town is proud to be an inclusive, diverse, and welcoming organisation that supports all members of the local and wider community. This commitment remains unchanged.”
It is understood that no official invitation was made by Ipswich to Farage. Portman Road Events, which manages private tours of the stadium, has seemingly taken a booking on behalf of Reform, but the full extent of what was involved did not become apparent to the club until later that day when social media posts emerged on the party’s official account.
The Championship club have faced criticism on social media, with Reform posts potentially giving the impression Portman Road staged a party rally on Monday, which actually took place at Trinity Park in the town.
Reform posted “Portman Road Awaits” on X on Monday evening and Farage followed up with a post on Tuesday morning, with club branding and sponsors clearly visible in the photos posted online. “I’ve never been too bad on the right wing,” Farage wrote on his official X account.
The party made a photo of Farage holding up a number 10 Ipswich shirt the banner on their official X account.
Reform UK has been contacted for comment. The party posted a further video of Farage at Portman Road on Tuesday afternoon, where he thanked the club for a “lovely welcome”.
