FA returns 'not proven' verdict in Windsor & Eton racism case

The Football Association (FA) has returned a verdict of ‘not proven’ after former Windsor & Eton forward Pawel Kowalkowski was accused of using a racist slur in their side’s home match with Burnham on Saturday, August 23.

Burnham reported the matter to the FA immediately after the game, with the club saying it condemned the incident in the ‘strongest possible terms’.

Both clubs have assisted the FA as it carried out an independent investigation into the matter over the past few weeks, with Windsor & Eton supplying the FA with video footage from the game.

However, they haven’t been able to prove a racist term was used by the player.

Windsor & Eton released a statement on the incident on Monday. It read: “Windsor & Eton Football Club can confirm that the Football Association has now concluded its independent investigation into allegations of racism against our former player, Pawel Kowalkowski.

“The outcome of the investigation has returned a verdict of “not proven.”

“From the outset, we made clear our commitment to transparency and to allow the independent process to run its course. We have respected that process fully and we thank all those who contributed to it.

“While Pawel is no longer a player at Windsor & Eton FC, it is important to reaffirm our position clearly: there is absolutely no room for racism in football, at our club, or in the community.”

An FA Spokesperson said: “All allegations of discrimination are treated with the utmost seriousness and are fully investigated.

“In this case, an independent National Serious Case Panel found the charge to be not proven following a thorough review of the evidence and a formal hearing.”

Burnham have yet to respond to the FA’s verdict, although a club spokesman has said they’re likely to appeal it.