Leeds United have released a statement urging fans to show respect during Sunday's FA Cup match against Norwich City, when play will be paused to allow Muslim players to break their Ramadan fast. The pause is expected around the 75th minute, coinciding with sunset at 5:56pm.
The club's plea follows controversy during last Saturday's Premier League clash with Manchester City, where some supporters booed a similar break. Leeds described the reaction as 'disappointing and unexpected', and the incident attracted national criticism.
In their statement, Leeds acknowledged that communication around the City match break was not 'proactive' enough, and that messaging inside Elland Road was not visible to all fans. The club explicitly condemned any supporters who boo players observing Ramadan.
Leeds also highlighted broader issues in football, including racism, homophobia, tragedy chanting, and 'sickening Jimmy Saville taunts' aimed at their own fans. The club called for unity, stating: 'On Sunday against Norwich City, there is an opportunity to show the very best of Leeds United, and that everyone is welcome at Elland Road.'
