Wolves and West Brom deliver threat of lifetime bans with Black Country derby behaviour warning

Wolves and Albion fans have been threatened with lifetime bans as a result of any crowd trouble ahead of Sunday’s eagerly-anticipated Black Country derby.

The arch-rivals meet at Molineux this weekend for the first time since the FA Cup tie of January 2024 at The Hawthorns, which was marred by violence in the stands.

A desire for no off-field headlines has been reiterated, with a warning that any breaches of behaviour in the Championship showdown will be dealt with “robustly” by both clubs and West Midlands Police.

It is the first Molineux league derby with fans since February 2012.

The cup tie of two-and-a-half years ago resulted in a delay of almost 40 minutes as fan trouble spilled out on to the field, as concerned players retrieved family members from the stands. Some of the trouble was sparked by a supporter believed to be in the wrong end.

In total 43 arrests were made as a result of the violence during the 2-0 Wolves win, with 12 resulting in charges in court.

One individual received a football banning order and five fans were subjected to permanent lifetime bans.

A joint statement by both clubs read: “These outcomes demonstrate that disorder, violence and criminal behaviour carry significant consequences and will continue to be dealt with robustly by both clubs and West Midlands Police.

“Supporters are reminded that anyone found engaging in violence, discriminatory behaviour, entering the pitch or trackside areas, throwing missiles, using pyrotechnics or breaching ground regulations risks arrest, prosecution, football banning orders and long-term or permanent exclusion from their club.”

Wolves and Albion have worked closely with the safety advisory group, local authorities and the police force to ensure a smooth operation for the noon kick-off.

There will be enhanced stewarding, policing, robust ticketing control and strict safety measures for the derby.

Supporters have been asked to only attend with tickets purchased through official channels. There have been threats of refusal, ejection and further sanction for sitting in the wrong position.

The clubs have called on fans to follow instruction from stewards and police and to arrive in good time for extra security searches.

Reporting unsafe, anti-social or discriminatory behaviour has been encouraged.

The sold-out allocation of Albion fans will leave Molineux via Camp Street. Home fans will not be able to access the rear of the Steve Bull Stand.

The statement added: “The overwhelming majority of Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers supporters attend this fixture to support their team passionately and responsibly, and we are confident that will once again be the case.

“Let's ensure this Black Country Derby is remembered for the football, the atmosphere and the passion in the stands.”