Wolves fan accused of racially abusing Rio Ferdinand at Molineux to face trial next year

A Wolves fan accused of racially abusing former England and Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand during a match a Molineux will face a trial next year.

By Richard Guttridge

Published Aug 26, 2021

Last updated Aug 26, 2021

Jamie Arnold leaving Wolverhampton Crown Court after he pleaded not guilty to a charge alleging he racially abused Rio Ferdinand. Picture date: Thursday August 26, 2021. PA Photo. See PA story COURTS Ferdinand . Photo credit should read: Matthew Cooper/PA Wire

Jamie Arnold denies making a racist gesture towards the ex-footballer, who was working as a pundit for the game against United in May.

The 31-year-old was arrested after Ferdinand highlighted the alleged incident on social media.

Arnold, of The Glebe, Norton Bridge, Stone, is due to stand trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court on August 8 next year after pleading not guilty to racially aggravated intentional harassment, alarm or distress.

Rio Ferdinand leaving Wolverhampton Crown Court. Photo: Matthew Cooper/PA Wire

He spoke only to confirm his name and deny the charge during a short hearing on Thursday. Arnold's bail conditions bar him from attending any Wolves matches until his trial.

The final game of last season was the first time Wolves fans had returned to Molineux since the start of the pandemic. It was also Nuno Espirito Santo's final game in charge. United won 2-1.