The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has launched an investigation into an incident involving “hateful language” directed at Orlando Pride striker Barbra Banda during their 2-0 victory over Gotham FC at Sports Illustrated Stadium in New York on Sunday.
The incident has sparked condemnation from the league, both clubs, and fans, with all parties emphasizing the unacceptable nature of such behavior.
“This behaviour is unacceptable and has no place in our league or in our stadiums,” read a joint statement released by the NWSL, Orlando Pride, and Gotham FC on Monday.
Gotham FC confirmed that they have apologized to Orlando Pride and are actively cooperating with the NWSL in the investigation.
The club also stated that their stadium security swiftly responded to the reported incident during the match.
“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,” Gotham FC stated.
Barbra Banda, the 2024 BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year, has been a standout performer in the NWSL.
She scored twice in Orlando’s opening game of the 2025 season, a 6-0 victory over Chicago Stars, and has been instrumental in Orlando Pride’s current position at the top of the NWSL table after winning their first two games.
Banda’s achievements extend beyond the NWSL. She also made history at the Paris Olympics last summer, scoring four goals for Zambia and becoming the leading African goalscorer in Olympic history with 10 goals.
“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,” the NWSL stated, adding, “Barbra Banda is both an exceptional player and person, and the NWSL is immensely proud to support her as a member of our league.”
Orlando Pride echoed these sentiments, stating, “Barbra is an outstanding role model and an influential advocate for soccer both in Africa and here in the United States. We look forward to continuing to celebrate and support her on and off the pitch.”
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and the NWSL has pledged to take appropriate action based on its findings.
