James McClean 'punches fan in car park' as Wrexham issue statement on poppy rebel

Callum Vurley

By Callum Vurley


Published: 04/11/2025

- 18:37

An altercation has been alleged to have happened after Wrexham and Cardiff met in the Carabao Cup

A physical altercation allegedly occurred between Wrexham winger James McClean and a Cardiff City supporter in the stadium car park prior to their recent Carabao Cup encounter.

The confrontation took place before Cardiff's 2-1 victory over the Welsh rivals last week.


Reports say that the former Republic of Ireland international acted in self-defence during the incident.

The altercation developed after McClean had parked his vehicle in the designated players' compound outside the stadium.

James McClean has been accused of punching a fan in an act of self-defenceJames McClean has been accused of punching a fan in an act of self-defence | PA

The circumstances surrounding how Cardiff supporters gained entry to the restricted parking area designated for Wrexham players remain unclear.

What initially began as light-hearted banter between McClean and the Cardiff supporters quickly deteriorated into a heated exchange.

According to reports, the interaction started with jokes directed at the Northern Irish player.

The situation rapidly intensified as verbal exchanges became increasingly hostile.

Insults were traded between both parties before the confrontation turned physical.

Wrexham have made a statement after an incident allegedly involving James McClean

Wrexham have made a statement after an incident allegedly involving James McClean

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PA

The group of away supporters had somehow accessed the secure parking area reserved exclusively for Wrexham players.

This breach of the restricted compound created the conditions for the unexpected encounter between McClean and the Cardiff fans.

The club has acknowledged the situation, with a Wrexham spokesperson stating: "Wrexham AFC are aware of an incident involving a first-team player and a visiting supporter ahead of our match against Cardiff City, which has been reported to the relevant authorities."

James McCleanJames McClean, who plays for Wrexham, has long made it clear he'll never wear a poppy | GETTY

The spokesperson added: "We will be making no further comment on the matter at this stage."

Despite the confrontation, the Cardiff supporter involved has chosen not to take the matter any further.

North Wales Police have confirmed they are not conducting an investigation into the car park altercation.

The incident occurred before Wrexham's elimination from the Carabao Cup following their defeat at the hands of their Welsh rivals.

The 35-year-old McClean has faced persistent hostility from opposing supporters throughout his career.

Last year, Wrexham implemented enhanced security measures to shield him from abuse during matches.

The EFL granted McClean special dispensation to exit the pitch via the shortest available route when substituted. This arrangement aimed to minimise exposure to hostile crowds and potential missile throwing.

McClean's stance on not wearing poppies during Remembrance commemorations has made him a target for abuse.

James McClean

James McClean has previously stood away from his Wrexham team-mates before the Remembrance silence

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PA

His hometown of Derry witnessed the 1972 Bloody Sunday tragedy, where British forces killed 14 unarmed civilians.

The player maintains his position stems from respect for those who perished during the Troubles in Northern Ireland.