Police investigation into Exeter City match racism allegation concludes

A police investigation into alleged racist abuse during a football match at Exeter City has ended without any arrests or charges.

The incident was reported during Exeter City’s League One match against Reading at St James Park on 11 October 2025.

READ NEXT: Plymouth and Dartmoor bus concerns raised as Devon MP presses Government and Stagecoach

Play was stopped in the second half following a complaint that an Exeter player had been racially abused by a supporter in the away end.

The  match was paused but ultimately continued, and ended in a 1-1 draw between the two Southern sides.

Devon and Cornwall Police said officers reviewed CCTV footage, spoke to stewards and interviewed Exeter City players as part of the investigation.

A police spokesperson said:

“None of those spoken to heard any racial abuse or were able to assist the investigation.”

The spokesperson added:

“At this time all enquiries have been exhausted, but should further information be reported, it will be investigated.”

Exeter City said it welcomed the investigation, even though it did not lead to further action.

An Exeter City spokesperson said:

“We are grateful to Devon and Cornwall Police for their investigation into this matter. Although the outcome was not what we had hoped for, we are pleased that the issue was handled appropriately and examined thoroughly.”

“Discrimination of any kind is unacceptable in society and in football. As a club, we will continue to work to remove it from the game.”

“We remain fully committed to ensuring that St James Park is a safe, welcoming and inclusive place for everyone.”

At the time of the incident, both Exeter City and Reading Football Club condemned the alleged abuse.

Reading said it had a “zero-tolerance approach to all forms of discrimination”, while Exeter City said allegations of racist abuse were treated “with the utmost importance”.

The match was paused while officials assessed the situation, followed by a public address announcement, in line with English Football League protocols.

Police have said they will review any new information if it comes to light.