Rochdale's head groundsman Joshua Haigh suspended for six weeks by the FA for racial abuse towards a broadcaster in February; incident took place on February 21 when Rochdale played Stockport County in League Two; Haigh's abusive conduct was proven to be race-related

Thursday 19 October 2023 19:03, UK

Rochdale's head groundsman Joshua Haigh has been suspended for six weeks by the FA for racial abuse towards a broadcaster earlier this year.

The incident took place on February 21 when Rochdale played Stockport County in League Two.

Haigh, who had denied the charge against him, was found guilty of an "aggravated breach" of FA Rule E3 because his conduct included a reference - whether expressed or implied - to race and/or colour.

An FA statement read: "Rochdale's head groundsman, Joshua Haigh, has been sanctioned for breaching FA Rule E3 at their EFL League Two game against Stockport County on Tuesday 21 February.

"It was alleged that his conduct towards a member of the media at the game was abusive and/or insulting and/or improper contrary to Rule E3.1. It was further alleged that this...