‘Disgraceful bigotry’: Leeds fans slammed for booing 12th-minute Ramadan break in Man City clash

Last Updated on 1 March 2026

In a moment that has overshadowed a high-stakes Premier League encounter, Leeds United finds itself at the center of controversy regarding fan conduct and religious tolerance.

During the fixture against Manchester City, a brief, pre-agreed pause in play to allow Muslim players to break their fast was met with audible jeers and whistling from sections of the home crowd at Elland Road.

The incident occurred early in the first half, timed specifically for sunset, as players including Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush, Rayan Ait-Nouri and Rayan Cherki took a moment to break their fast.

The incident: A brief pause met a loud reaction from Leeds supporters

Following a directive established by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) in 2023, referees are encouraged to find a natural pause in play during Ramadan to allow Muslim athletes to break their fast (Iftar).

As referee Peter Bankes signaled a brief stoppage, the atmosphere shifted. Jeers and whistles were heard all around Elland Road in a rather distasteful manner. The interruption lasted less than sixty seconds, but the social media fallout was instantaneous.

Leeds United fans slammed for bigotry

The portion of fans inside Elland Road responsible for the boos and whistles have been criticised on social media.

One fan wrote: “Leeds fans boo fast breaking Muslim players breaking fast during Ramadan is disgraceful bigotry. Players observing religious practices during match should be respected not jeered.”

Another posted: “Football has serious Islamophobia problem when crowds react like that to basic accommodation. Club needs to address this publicly and punish fans involved or it keeps happening.”

A third called for the need for religious tolerance: “Religious tolerance should be taught amongst the fans,we are all humans after all.”

However, there were some fans who supported the reaction from the Leeds United fans.

One wrote: “Well done to the Leeds supporters. That break is unnecessary”

The Wider Context: Ramadan in the Premier League 2026

The Premier League has been a global leader in accommodating Muslim players during the holy month.

In 2026, the league’s “Matchday Fast-Break” protocol is a standard procedure for any match occurring around sunset.

The Premier League counts over 55 practicing Muslim players this season. For stars like City’s Marmous and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, playing at an elite level while abstaining from food and water from dawn is a feat of extreme physical and mental discipline.