Birmingham City: Police close investigation into racist banner targeting former Blues owner Xuandong Ren | Football news

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Lancashire Police have closed their investigation into a racist banner targeting former Birmingham City owner and CEO Xuandong Ren after no formal complaint was filed.

On May 8, a number of protest banners appeared around Blackburn before Birmingham was beaten 5-2 at Ewood Park to finish 18th on the last day of the 2020/21 championship season.

Birmingham said in a statement after the match that they warned police because one of the banners was “definitely racist”.

A racial insult was used on the banner which appeared to refer to Xuandong Ren from Hong Kong.

However, it is understood that the club decided not to make a formal complaint when contacted by Lancashire Police.

The force confirmed to Sky Sports News that its investigation is closed and that no further action has been taken.

Three days after the protests in Blackburn, Xuandong Ren resigned his post at the club.

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Highlights of the Sky Bet Championship match between Birmingham City and Bristol City on Tuesday

In a statement released after the game in May, Birmingham called the behavior “unacceptable” and said “there is no room for racism in Birmingham City”.

“While the club will defend and respect the right of supporters to demonstrate and to be heard, racism in any form directed against anyone will not be tolerated,” the club statement said.

“In recent weeks, the club have taken a particularly strong stand in support of the anti-racist movement in football.

“Just last month, the club implemented a seven-day social media blackout to tackle abuse in the game.

“We then joined the rest of the Premier League and other EFL (English Football League) clubs in a second boycott of social media platforms to reiterate our position.

“To be clear, there is no room for racism at Birmingham City Football Club.

“We believe the overwhelming majority of our supporters will share our disgust at the banner’s message, and those in charge do not represent our fan base.

“The police have been notified of the incident and the club will offer our assistance to the authorities.”

Sky Sports News has contacted Birmingham City for comment.

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