Man banned from football stadiums after Nazi salute at AFC Wimbledon game

Alan Strank, 42, of Guildford, Surrey, appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on Thursday where he pleaded guilty to a racially aggravated offence.

In addition to the three-year football banning order, he will have to undertake 50 hours of unpaid work in the community and pay a £180 fine.

The court heard that during the match, which took place at the Cherry Red Records Stadium on April 9, Strank was seen making a Nazi salute towards the away supporters.

The incident was not reported on the day, but an investigation was launched after a review of all body-worn and CCTV footage.

Police Constable James Crawley, the investigating officer, said: “Racism has no place within football, or indeed in society, and those who engage in such behaviour should be under no illusion that they are committing a crime.

“The consequences of that crime were clearly demonstrated today.

“Genuine football fans and players are fed up with this kind of toxic discourse surrounding the game, and we will use all the policing powers available to us to stop it from happening.”

Pictured top: Alan Strank (Picture: The Met)