By Global Times Published: Jul 21, 2025 05:02 PM
Wei Shihao (right) of Chengdu Rongcheng runs with the ball during the Chinese Super League match against Tianjin Jinmen Tiger on July 18, 2025 in Tianjin. Photo: IC
Two Chinese Super League clubs issued petitions on Monday calling for civilized conduct of fans, after a Tianjin Jinmen Tiger club fan insulted a Chengdu Rongcheng player during their Chinese Super League (CSL) match last week, an incident that has sparked strong condemnation across the league and beyond.
The incident, which took place on Friday when Tianjin hosted Chengdu, involved a fan who was later identified as a man surnamed Jiang. The man directed abusive language at Chengdu player Wei Shihao, drawing widespread criticism for unsportsmanlike conduct.
The Chinese Professional Football League (CFL) released a statement denouncing the behavior on Sunday at midnight, calling it "a severe violation of football ethics and a disruption to the professional league's order."
Jiang has been placed under administrative detention and banned from attending future matches of Tianjin, according to a statement jointly issued by the Tianjin police and the Tianjin Football Association on Sunday evening.
The fan group where Jiang is a member has also been penalized, as the CFL issued a spectator-section ban for the fan's action for one match.
In the wake of the CFL's statement on Monday, Shanghai Shenhua, current leaders of the CSL, joined other clubs in issuing open letters advocating for a healthy and respectful football culture.
"Football is a sport that promotes unity and passion, and the stadium is no place for violence or hatred," said a joint statement signed by nine prominent Shenhua fans associations.
Similarly, Qingdao West Coast called for the fans to copyright the city's image and to embody the authentic spirit of Qingdao football.
"Fans are the team's '12th man,' and our behavior reflects the city's character and civic qualities. Civilized conduct is not only a mark of respect toward the team, it is also a profound tribute to ourselves, our city, and our hometown!" the statement reads.