Fan convicted of hurling racist abuse at Ferdinand at Wolves' 1st EPL match

A football fan has been convicted of hurling racist abuse at Rio Ferdinand at Wolves' first Premier League match after supporters were allowed back into stadiums following the pandemic.

Jamie Arnold, 33, hurled racist remarks and hand gestures at the ex-England defender, who was working as a pundit for BT Sport during the match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and his former club Manchester United on May 23 2021.

The Wolves fan had denied a racially aggravated public order offence but was unanimously convicted today following a two-day trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court and will be sentenced on December 8, West Midlands Police said.

Pc Stuart Ward, the UK's first dedicated hate crime officer within a football unit for West Midlands Police, said: 'Abusing anyone for the colour of their skin is disgusting and can never, ever be condoned.

'Arnold is old enough to know such appalling behaviour is inexcusable and certainly won't be tolerated.

'I know from personal experience how being a victim of racism hurts while offenders risk their own aspirations through getting a criminal record.

'I would like to thank Rio for his assistance in this investigation.

'Through his support, we've ensured a man has this conviction to his name.'

Arnold, of Stone, Staffordshire, was arrested at the scene following the offence, which occurred during the first game played at Molineux with fans present since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Ferdinand celebrated when Man United scored in their 2-1 win over Wolves and Arnold reacted by directing a racist gesture towards the pundit which was followed by the use of a racist remark.

The Crown Prosecution Service said he was caught making racist gestures on CCTV and was seen by several witnesses in the