NJ/NY Gotham FC took decisive action by banning a fan who verbally abused Barbra Banda during a match. This incident took place during Gotham’s loss to the Orlando Pride on March 23. After hearing multiple witnesses and reviewing security footage, it was determined that the fan had violated the NWSL Fan Code of Conduct.

“Gotham FC conducted a thorough investigation in collaboration with the NWSL, staff and stadium security. We interviewed numerous witnesses, including fans and stadium, team and league personnel, and reviewed stadium security footage and security log,” Gotham said in a statement on Wednesday. “The club found that a fan violated the NWSL Fan Code of Conduct.”

The investigation was triggered after stadium security swiftly reacted to the abusive comments during the game.
Additionally, both the Pride and the NWSL expressed their strong support for Banda, who has faced similar attacks in the past. Recently, Banda had also been a target of comments made by J.K. Rowling, who misgendered her on social media.

“The lowest form of discourse is personal insult cloaked with racism and lies, on X no less,” Burke said. “Barbra Banda is a proud member of NWSLPA. She is the best of us. Just so we’re clear, JK Rowling: you come for her, you come for all of us. Me first. Let’s go.”