North Wales footballer is cleared of racism charge by FAW

A footballer representing CPD Gronant has been cleared by the FAW of making alleged racist comments during a match.

The North East Wales FA brought the charge following a complaint made by Plas Madoc after a cup tie against Gronant on September 23, 2023.

The NEWFA enforced a 10-match ban and £500 fine on the player for making alleged racist comments towards an opposition player.

Vehemently denying the charge, CPD Gronant, who compete in the Tier 5 North East Wales League Championship Division, immediately appealed.

The FAW heard the case in March and this week confirmed it had cleared the player and club of any wrongdoing. The NEWFA have the right to appeal.

CPD Gronant and the player were represented by football advocate Christopher O’Neal.

The club said in a statement: “CPD Gronant confirms that it has appealed to the Football Association of Wales (FAW) regarding the decision made by the North East Wales Football Association (NEWFA) regarding an alleged case of racial comments made by one of its players against an opposing player.

“In the appeal hearing held on Tuesday, 16th March 2024, the services of football advocate Christopher O’Neal & Claim Assist were engaged to represent CPD Gronant.

“The FAW procedure for appeals constitutes a full re-hearing, and CPD Gronant is pleased to announce that the outcome of the appeal resulted in the complete vindication of its player from the charge.

“CPD Gronant strongly reiterates that it does not condone racism in any form and pledges its support to all initiatives aimed at eradicating such behavior from football in our native land.”

Christopher O’Neal commented: “We took on this case as it was evident from the outset that the alleged incident had not occurred. Despite evidence submitted by NEWFA alleging otherwise, we are gratified that the panel unanimously concluded that the charge was unproven.

“The player in question has endured undue hardship due to this false accusation, and we urge the North East Wales Football Association to reassess their processes moving forward.”

Costs of the case will now be submitted against the NEWFA for the FAW to ratify and agree or disagree.