Fan who abused and disaster taunts on Mohamed Salah banned from matches

A football fan has been banned from attending matches after shouting racist abuse towards Liverpool's Mohamed Salah and mocking the Heysel stadium disaster. Joel Barwise, an Everton fan, made derogatory remarks and gestures during the Merseyside derby at Anfield on 21 October.

The 26-year-old pleaded guilty to racially or religiously aggravated harassment causing alarm or distress by words or writing. Barwise, who admitted his actions and expressed remorse, was given a three-year banning order and fined £500.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) stated that Barwise was observed by a match steward engaging in racist abuse and offensive gestures. Merseyside Police identified him through CCTV footage and subsequently arrested him. Despite initially claiming mistaken identity, Barwise eventually confessed to his actions, stating, 'Because I'm an idiot.'


As a result of the banning order, Barwise is prohibited from attending any football matches in the UK for three years and must surrender his passport during international matches held abroad. Additionally, he is required to stay at least a mile away from any Everton match or Liverpool Lime Street station on matchdays.

Senior crown prosecutor Angela Conlan condemned Barwise's behavior as 'disgraceful' and emphasized that his actions brought shame to his club. Liverpool emerged victorious in the game with a 2-0 win, both goals scored by Salah.