The conduct of Dundee United supporters has long been a source of pride for our club. The overwhelming majority of our fans continue to represent Dundee United with passion, loyalty and respect.
In recent seasons, we have actively supported the development of a designated section within the Eddie Thompson Stand to enhance the matchday atmosphere with a singing section. The club have formed a good relationship with the display group whose displays and backing have been a fantastic example of how such relationships can foster improved atmosphere and support for the team. The positive evolution of the above witnessed the growth of the ‘Eastside’ ultra group.
However, in recent weeks, behaviour within this area of the Eddie Thompson Stand has deteriorated to an unacceptable level. In addition, individuals associated with this section, including juveniles, have been identified as engaging in antisocial behaviour in the vicinity of the stadium, and involvement in confrontations with visiting supporters following fixtures against The Spartans and Kilmarnock.
This conduct has no place at our home stadium. It is wholly inconsistent with the values of Dundee United Football Club and the standards upheld by the vast majority of our supporters. Beyond the immediate impact, it carries significant reputational risk and exposes the club to potential regulatory consequences. Issues of unacceptable conduct are central to ongoing dialogue between clubs, the SPFL and Police Scotland in relation to stadium safety, ticket allocations and supporter segregation. Any club demonstrating concerning patterns of such behaviour risks scrutiny and the possibility of external sanctions.
Dundee United will not tolerate anti-social behaviour that brings the club into disrepute and damages the reputation of our wider season ticket holders and fanbase. The vast majority of our fans behave acceptably and offer support to the club and its players that is the envy of many other clubs, and we want those fans to be able to watch their team and leave the stadium in safety.
The club will continue dialogue with supporters and season ticket holders in this section of the Eddie Thompson Stand; however, should unacceptable conduct persist, the club will have no option but to take decisive action.
