The National Women’s Soccer League (NSWL) have condemned the reports of hateful language directed at Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda, Afrosport reports.
A report surfaced about fan behaviour in the NWSL game between Gotham FC and the Pride at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey at the weekend, claiming Banda has been subjected to racist and transphobic abuse.
The Zambia superstar was also subject to transphobic online abuse last year when she was named the BBC’s Women’s Footballer of the Year. It stemmed from a sex eligibility case that kept Banda out of the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
“This behaviour is unacceptable and has no place in our league or in our stadiums,” the NWSL, Orlando Pride and Gotham FC all said in a joint statement.
“Stadium security swiftly responded to the incident once it was reported and directly addressed the individual, monitoring the situation for the remainder of the match.
“We are committed to ensuring that our venues are safe and respectful environments for all – especially for the athletes who represent the very best of our sport.
“Barbra Banda is both an exceptional player and person, and the NWSL is immensely proud to support her as a member of our league.”
Full Statement: The National Women’s Soccer League is aware of an incident involving hateful language directed at Barbra Banda during this weekend’s match between Gotham FC and Orlando Pride. We are united in our message: this behavior is unacceptable and has no place in our…
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) March 24, 2025
Banda won the NWSL MVP in 2024 after helping the Pride to the league title, scoring 17 goals in 25 games.
She has scored two goals and provided an assist in two games in the current campaign.
