Lifetime bans for those behind 'White lives matter' aeroplane banner stunt during Manchester City v Burnley match

The people responsible for the 'White lives matter' aeroplane banner stunt over the Etihad Stadium in Manchester on Monday are facing lifetime bans, Burnley FC has confirmed.
Andrew Quinn
By Andrew Quinn
Published 23rd Jun 2020, 11:59 BST
Updated 23rd Jun 2020, 12:00 BST
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The aeroplane and the banner, which read 'White lives matter Burnley' appeared shortly after both Manchester City FC and Burnley FC showed solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement by kneeling on one knee.

"Burnley Football Club strongly condemns the actions of those responsible for the aircraft and offensive banner that flew over the Etihad Stadium on Monday evening," said a spokesperson for Burnley FC.

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"We wish to make it clear that those responsible are not welcome at Turf Moor.

"This, in no way, represents what Burnley Football Club stands for and we will work fully with the authorities to identify those responsible and issue lifetime bans."

The club went on to apologise for what happened and reaffirm its support for the Premier League's Black Lives Matter initiative.

"The club has a proud record of working with all genders, religions and faiths through its award-winning Community scheme, and stands against racism of any kind.

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"We are fully behind the Premier League’s Black Lives Matter initiative and, in line with all other Premier League games undertaken since Project Restart, our players and football staff willingly took the knee at kick-off at Manchester City.

The banner appeared at the same time players from both Manchester City and Burnley FC knelt on one knee to send a message of support for the Premier League's Black Lives Matter initiative.The banner appeared at the same time players from both Manchester City and Burnley FC knelt on one knee to send a message of support for the Premier League's Black Lives Matter initiative.
The banner appeared at the same time players from both Manchester City and Burnley FC knelt on one knee to send a message of support for the Premier League's Black Lives Matter initiative.

"We apologise unreservedly to the Premier League, to Manchester City and to all those helping to promote Black Lives Matter."

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Burnley FC insists anyone found to be responsible for the stunt will be issued with a lifetime ban.Burnley FC insists anyone found to be responsible for the stunt will be issued with a lifetime ban.
Burnley FC insists anyone found to be responsible for the stunt will be issued with a lifetime ban.

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