FA bans England fan mocking Maradona’s death with flag ahead of Italy match

The Football Association has revealed it's banned the England fan who mocked the death of Diego Maradona from attending the Italy qualifier.

The former Napoli player, World Cup winner and manager passed away at the age of 60 in November last year after suffering from a heart attack while at his home.

Now, an England fan has been photographed with a flag on their way to Naples for England's Euro 2024 qualifier with Italy with a reference to Maradona on his flag.

However, the fan has since been banned from attending the match by the Football Association (FA) because of the offensive nature of the flag.

Twitter/ @thecasualultra

In the image, the football fan can be seen holding an England flag.

However, printed on top of the flag reads: "Diego's in a box."

The photograph has become widespread on social media, sparking outrage, with many users predicting the fan will be far from well-received upon reaching Naples.

One said: "RIP to this guy."

"Think he needs to get out of Naples as quickly as possible," another wrote.

A third added: "Guy's gonna get sliced and put on a Neopolitan pizza later."

A final wrote: "Not a smart idea to be in NAPLES with an English flag that says 'Diego’s in a box.' Good luck is all I will say."

Twitter/ @thecasualultra

The FA has since responded to the photograph of the fan and their flag, releasing the statement: "We strongly condemn the actions of the individual who travelled to Naples with a flag that had a highly offensive message on it.

"We immediately took steps to have their tickets cancelled before the match.

"The matter will be reviewed further when we return to England."

FA

The FA has received an outpouring of support from football fans over its decision to cancel the individual's tickets to the qualifier.

One Twitter user wrote: "It's impressive to see such quick action. Well done FA."

"Serves him right and possibly saves his life," a second said.

Another simply resolved: "Best of luck to him sitting outside the ground in Naples."

There have already being growing fears surrounding the safety of the upcoming qualifier, with a friendly match between England and Italy supporters having been called off, as per TalkSport.

Naples has also seen clashes between police and football fans, so holding an offensive sign against Maradona is certainly not the wisest move.

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677