Cork City FC leave X due to ‘discriminatory and abusive language’

Cork City FC have become the first League of Ireland club to leave X (formerly Twitter) after what they have described as a “significant increase in discriminatory and abusive language” on the platform.

Cork City FC recently launched a third kit, featuring a rainbow design across the club badge and sponsors’ logos, in support of the LGBT+ community.

The club described the jersey as "A symbol of the club’s dedication to diversity, highlighting Cork City FC’s commitment to inclusion for all in sport, while providing support to Cork’s LGBTQ+ youth."

A minimum of €5,000 from the jersey’s sales is going directly to Belong To.

Despite receiving support for the jersey, the club also faced abusive language against the LGBTQ+ community.

Following this, the club announced their final post on the social media platform.

"Over the last while, like many others, we have noticed a significant increase in discriminatory and abusive language on X. While differing opinions should and will always be heard, they cross the line when they are intolerant and downright offensive.

"We have a duty of care to our players, our staff, our supporters and the wider community, and it is a responsibility that we do not take lightly.

"As a result of this, we have decided that X is no longer for us."