Chelsea Football Club have been charged by the Football Association (FA) over alleged discriminatory conduct by fans during their Premier League win over Fulham in August.
If found guilty, the Blues could face disciplinary action from the Football Association.
The FA said Chelsea were charged with breaching Rule E21 over alleged conduct by spectators during the ninth minute of the 3-2 at Craven Cottage on August 24.
According to the FA, Chelsea allegedly failed to ensure that their spectators and supporters did not behave in an ‘improper, offensive, abusive or insulting’ manner.
The governing body further alleged that the conduct was discriminatory because it included a reference, either express or implied, to religion or belief.
The charge follows Chelsea’s own acknowledgement of concerns raised after the match. The club wrote to supporters following the victory, saying it had received ‘multiple reports of sectarian chanting from a small portion’ of its fans.
Chelsea said it did not condone discriminatory chanting and warned that supporters found responsible would face ‘the strongest possible action’.
The FA’s disciplinary process could now result in a financial penalty or other sanctions if the charge is proven, depending on the circumstances and the findings of the relevant disciplinary panel.
The case adds another disciplinary issue for Chelsea to manage as the club seeks to maintain its conduct standards both inside and outside the stadium.
Chelsea are currently 10th in the Premier League with seven points after five matches.