A man who posted a racist message on social media following the England men’s football team defeat in the Euro 2020 final has appeared in court.
Karl Tizzard, 29, posted the message on Twitter 25 minutes after the penalty shootout on July 11 last year.
Sussex Police were informed of the Tweet and they charged him with sending an offensive, indecent, obscene or menacing message or matter via a public communication network.
Tizzard, formerly a kitchen worker, of Roundstone Drive, East Preston, admitted the charge at Worthing Magistrates’ Court on February 1.
The court found that the message was racially aggravated, and he was fined £1,153. He must also pay £85 costs and a £115 victim surcharge.
Following the case, Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club issued him with an indefinite ban from the Amex Community Stadium and away match fixtures, the maximum punishment possible from the club.
Sussex Police’s dedicated football officer PC Darren Balkham said:
“Tizzard posted an appalling matter on his Twitter account just moments after the Euro 2020 final.
“He pleaded guilty to breaching the Communications Act by posting the offensive message which was racially aggravated.
“This court result demonstrates we will not tolerate any form of racist abuse and will pursue those who abuse others online.
"It also sends a strong message that this behaviour is not acceptable, whether that be in the stands or on social media.”
Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club said:
“The club has a zero tolerance to any racist behaviour or discrimination of any kind.
“Individuals found to have committed such offences – either in person, online or via social media – will face an indefinite ban from home and away matches and criminal prosecution.”
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