The mayor of an Australian municipality has called for government funding to be suspended for Preston Lions FC, a Melbourne club associated with the North Macedonian community, until investigations are completed into offensive anti-Greek and misogynistic banners displayed by a group of supporters during a National Premier Leagues Victoria match.
Manningham Mayor Jim Grivas said the conduct was “unacceptable” and urged authorities to identify those responsible and impose appropriate sanctions.
“There is no place in our sporting arenas, public spaces or communities for messages that degrade women or vilify any section of society,” Grivas said in a statement.
His intervention came after Football Victoria ordered Preston Lions to play its next two home matches behind closed doors while its investigation continues. The governing body has said further sanctions remain under consideration.
The incident has drawn condemnation from soccer authorities, Greek Australian organizations and community leaders. Grivas also called on local, state and federal governments to suspend grants and funding to the club until the investigation is complete and any sanctions have been implemented.
