Ipswich Town has faced backlash from supporters after hosting Reform UK leader Nigel Farage at Portman Road. Farage posted photos on X appearing to 'sign' for the club, prompting strong reactions from fans. The visit occurred ahead of a Reform rally in the town.
Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, visited Ipswich Town's Portman Road stadium on March 24. The 61-year-old politician shared images on his X account showing him holding up a blue Ipswich shirt and posing as if signing for the club. He captioned the post: “I’ve never been too bad on the right wing.” Farage was in Ipswich for a Reform rally ahead of local elections in May. Earlier that day, a planned stop in Folkestone was cancelled due to protesters. The club's decision to welcome Farage has drawn sharp criticism from many Ipswich fans. One supporter replied to his post: “This shames our club. In the 1970’s we were one of the first clubs to have a racially diverse fanbase. Absolutely sickening to see this.” Another commented: “Speechless. What are you doing you idiots?” Ipswich Town, managed by Kieran McKenna, were relegated from the Premier League last season. They currently sit third in the Championship table, two points behind Middlesbrough with a game in hand, positioning them well for potential promotion.
