Chelsea have been charged by the Football Association following allegations of discriminatory chanting by a section of their supporters during the Premier League fixture against Fulham on 24 August.

The alleged chanting occurred in the ninth minute of Chelsea's 3-2 victory at Craven Cottage, a result that came in the opening weeks of the Premier League season.

The FA charged Chelsea with breaching FA Rule E21, alleging that the club failed to ensure its supporters did not behave in an improper, offensive, abusive, or insulting manner. The governing body further alleged that the behaviour was discriminatory, containing references — whether express or implied — to religion or belief.

Chelsea's response

In the immediate aftermath of the match, Chelsea wrote to their supporters acknowledging "multiple reports of sectarian chanting from a small portion" of fans at the game. The club made clear it does not condone any form of discriminatory chanting and warned that any supporter found guilty of such behaviour would face "the strongest possible action."

This is not the first time Chelsea have had to address sectarian conduct among a portion of their fanbase. In 2021, the club condemned a supporter who was filmed on social media directing sectarian abuse at Aston Villa and Scotland international John McGinn.

Chelsea's Premier League start

Off the pitch, Chelsea sit 10th in the Premier League standings, having collected seven points from their opening five matches of the season.