Ipswich say they remain ‘apolitical’ after visit from Reform leader Nigel Farage

Ipswich have defended a visit to the club by Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, saying they remain “apolitical” and will engage with representatives “from across the political spectrum”.

Sources close to the Championship club had insisted earlier on Tuesday that no official invitation had been made to Farage, who visited the club’s Portman Road ground on Monday ahead of a rally at Trinity Park in Ipswich later the same day.

Reform UK sources contested that assertion, and insisted Farage had been invited by representatives of the club. He posed for photos in the dressing room, the press room and pitchside for stills and for a video, in which he thanked the club for the “lovely welcome” he had received.

His visit drew criticism from some Ipswich supporters, but in a statement issued by the club later on Tuesday there was no assertion that the visit had not had official approval.

“Ipswich Town Football Club has, over several years, hosted representatives from a range of political parties,” the statement began.

“The club remains apolitical and does not support or endorse any individual or party. The club will continue to engage with representatives from across the political spectrum as part of its role within the community.

“Ipswich Town is proud to be an inclusive, diverse, and welcoming organisation that supports all members of the local and wider community. This commitment remains unchanged.”

Reform UK posted “Portman Road awaits” on Monday evening, followed by a post from Farage’s account on Tuesday morning in which he wrote: “I’ve never been too bad on the right wing”. The post was accompanied by pictures from his visit.

The party also made a photo of Farage holding up a number 10 Ipswich shirt the banner on their official X account.

The club declined to comment, but some supporters criticised them on X, with one describing it as “PR suicide for a family club”.

Alex, another Ipswich fan, told the Press Association he was “disgusted and ashamed” at what had happened, adding: “It is a slap in the face to supporters and players, past and present.”

Reform posted a further video of Farage at Portman Road on Tuesday afternoon, in which he joked he could be on the shortlist for the manager’s job if the club did not win promotion to the Premier League this season.

Farage said: “It’s a big end of the season for Ipswich, they’re really in contention to go back into the Premier League.

“Let’s hope they do, but if they don’t, I think there’s a chance here – I’ve had a chat with a few people on the manager’s job coming up next season and I’m definitely on the shortlist.

“The trouble is, there’s only one job I’m really after.”

The video then cut to the door of 10 Downing Street – the prime minister’s residence.

Norwich appeared to poke fun at their East Anglia rivals by posting on X: “Book a stadium tour of Carrow Road – new dates now available. Terms and conditions will most definitely apply.”

The text concluded with a ‘clenched teeth’ emoji.

Farage replied to Norwich’s post, writing “See you next week” followed by a winking face emoji.

On Tuesday evening, Reform posted “Leeds tonight. Not the football club” with a laughing face emoji.