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Women’s Regional Cup Final Abandoned After Flag Dispute

Stadium owners’ demand to remove pro-Palestine banners at Maidstone’s Gallagher Stadium led to the match’s abandonment.

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Stadium representatives objected to the display of Palestinian flags by supporters
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Overview

  • Midway through the first half of the L&SERWFL Trophy final, stadium management confronted supporters over Palestinian flags and a banner reading “Show genocide the red card.”
  • Clapton’s players opted to abandon the final rather than play in an empty stadium, leaving their side leading 2-0.
  • Supporters from both clubs then united in solidarity, singing and displaying banners in support of Palestinian and transgender rights.
  • The London and South East Regional Women’s Football League declared the cup final void and both clubs now face possible FA disciplinary proceedings.
  • Maidstone United’s ground regulations do not explicitly ban specific flags, exposing a policy gap on political expression at lower-tier sports venues.