Police arrest man over alleged racist abuse during Newcastle vs Sunderland football match

Callum Vurley
Wed, 01 Apr 2026 18:08:14 +0000

Northumbria Police have detained a 45-year-old man from Gateshead in connection with allegations of racist abuse directed at Sunderland defender Lutsharel Geertruida during last month's Tyne-Wear derby.

The suspect was taken into custody on Tuesday on suspicion of committing a racially aggravated public order offence.

He has subsequently been released on bail whilst investigators continue their enquiries.

The incident occurred during the Premier League fixture between Newcastle United and Sunderland at St James' Park on 22 March.

Geertruida, the Dutch defender, was allegedly subjected to discriminatory abuse from someone within the crowd during the fiercely contested local rivalry match.

Sunderland later praised their player for displaying courage in bringing the matter to the attention of match officials.

Referee Anthony Taylor brought proceedings to a halt for approximately three minutes early in the second half after being alerted to the incident.

Sunderland skipper Granit Xhaka approached the official in the 52nd minute to report the alleged abuse, with play already stopped due to an injury to Newcastle's Sven Botman.

The Premier League's on-field anti-discrimination protocol was subsequently activated.

Both sets of coaching staff were consulted before the match was permitted to continue.

Newcastle United acknowledged they were aware of a racism allegation made by a visiting player against an individual in the stands.

The protocol ensures that such serious matters are addressed promptly and with appropriate gravity during live fixtures.

Detective Inspector Phil Guard made clear the force's stance on such behaviour, stating: "Racial abuse has absolutely no place in football or in our communities and we will not tolerate this type of behaviour."

He added: "Following proactive policing enquiries and close partnership working with both clubs and their supporters, a suspect has been arrested."

The officer confirmed that robust bail conditions have been imposed whilst the investigation proceeds.

Mr Guard emphasised that authorities would continue collaborating with clubs, supporters and partner agencies to combat criminality at football matches.

Despite the unsavoury incident, Sunderland emerged victorious on the day, securing a 2-1 triumph over their Tyneside rivals to complete a domestic double this season.