Back to the West Ham United Newsfeed

Leeds United: Football fan banned over Antonio racial abuse

A Leeds man who hurled racist abuse at West Ham United striker Michail Antonio has been banned from attending any football match for four years.

Gary Hawkins, 52, abused Antonio during Leeds United's 2-1 defeat to the Hammers at Elland Road in 2021.

He then went on to threaten a Leeds fan who challenged him over his outburst.

Hawkins, from Armley, was convicted of two offences after a trial at Leeds Magistrates' Court and given an eight week sentence, suspended for 12 months.

West Yorkshire Police said Hawkins targeted Antonio - who scored a 90th minute winner in the match - from his seat in the East Stand.