Ipswich Town have issued a statement this afternoon defending their decision to permit Reform UK leader Nigel Farage access to Portman Road, following considerable criticism from supporters on social media platforms.
The Championship club maintained that it holds no political allegiances and has welcomed figures from various parties over recent years.
"The club remains apolitical and does not support or endorse any individual or party," the statement declared.
"The club will continue to engage with representatives from across the political spectrum as part of its role within the community."
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Nigel Farage caused a stir on social media after posting pictures of himself with the Ipswich shirt
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The East Anglian outfit further emphasised its commitment to being "an inclusive, diverse and welcoming organisation."
Farage, 61, arrived at the Suffolk ground on Monday prior to addressing supporters at a rally held at Trinity Park later that evening.
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The Reform leader posed for photographs throughout the stadium, including in the dressing room, press facilities and beside the pitch.
Images shared on social media showed him brandishing a personalised Ipswich shirt bearing "Farage 10" on the reverse.
Accompanying the photographs on X, he quipped: "I've never been too bad on the right wing."
Reform UK subsequently made the image of Farage holding the number 10 jersey the banner on their official X account.
Following Monday’s visit by the Reform party and its leader, Nigel Farage, the club would like to issue the following statement:
— Ipswich Town (@IpswichTown) March 24, 2026
Ipswich Town Football Club has, over several years, hosted representatives from a range of political parties. The club remains apolitical and does not… pic.twitter.com/wdzC9PdXqH
The visit provoked a swift backlash from sections of the Ipswich faithful, with criticism spreading rapidly across social media platforms.
One supporter branded the decision "PR suicide for a family club."
Another added: "It is a slap in the face to supporters and players, past and present."
Reports say the club initially suggested that no formal invitation had been extended to Farage, with the private tour reportedly booked without the club being aware of who would be attending.
Reform UK sources disputed the assertion that no official invitation had been issued, insisting that club representatives had indeed invited Farage to Portman Road.
In a video released on Tuesday afternoon, Farage thanked the club for the "lovely welcome" he had received and jested about his prospects should the managerial position become available.
Nigel Farage thanked the club for the "lovely welcome" he had received
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"If they don't [win promotion], I think there's a chance... I'm definitely on the shortlist," he remarked, before adding: "Trouble is, there's only one job I'm really after."
The footage then cut to the door of 10 Downing Street.
Norwich City appeared to mock their East Anglian rivals, posting an advertisement for Carrow Road stadium tours with "terms and conditions" that would "most definitely apply."