Newcastle vow action after alleged racist abuse halts Tyne-Wear derby

Newcastle have vowed to track down those responsible for discriminatory abuse aimed at Sunderland defender Lutsharel Geertruida during Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby.

Referee Anthony Taylor briefly paused the game and spoke to both managers and club officials during the second half of the Magpies’ 2-1 Premier League defeat by their neighbours at St James’ Park after an incident had been reported to him.

Newcastle later said in a statement: “We are aware of a report of racism made by a visiting player against someone in the crowd during our Premier League match against Sunderland.

#NEWSUN

Today’s match between Newcastle United and Sunderland was temporarily paused during the second half after a report of discriminatory abuse from the crowd, directed at Sunderland’s Lutsharel Geertruida.

This is in line with the Premier League's on-field…

— Premier League Match Centre (@PLMatchCentre) March 22, 2026

“Our stance is clear – we do not tolerate discrimination of any form. We will work with the authorities to fully investigate and will ensure any individuals are identified and held accountable.”

The Premier League said it will investigate the incident under its on-field anti-discrimination protocol.

Taylor had been approached by Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka in the 52nd minute, when the game was already stopped due to an injury to Newcastle’s Sven Botman.

Taylor spoke to both sets of coaches, Xhaka and Geertruida before restarting the game.

A social media post from the Premier League Match Centre read: “The incident at St James’ Park will now be fully investigated. We offer our full support to the player and both clubs.

“Racism has no place in our game, or anywhere in society. We will continue to work with stakeholders and