Millwall consider legal action over KKK image featuring club badge

• Millwall are weighing legal action after their crest was used in a Ku Klux Klan illustration in a school booklet
• Westminster City Council apologised, withdrew the material and confirmed remaining copies will be destroyed
• The image related to racist abuse suffered by former Chelsea player Paul Canoville, though his foundation denied involvement

Millwall are considering legal action after their club badge was used in an illustration depicting a Ku Klux Klan figure in an anti-racism booklet distributed to primary schools.

The image, which appeared in educational material produced by Westminster City Council, showed a cartoon figure dressed in the white hood and robes associated with the Ku Klux Klan, with the Millwall crest displayed on the outfit. It was placed alongside a photograph of former Chelsea player Paul Canoville, referencing racist abuse he experienced during his career.

A speech bubble accompanying the image quoted Canoville describing an incident during a reserve match at Millwall in the 1980s, when he said he was subjected to racial abuse.

The use of the club’s badge prompted a strong response from Millwall, who described it as a “serious misuse” that created a “false and damaging image” of the club. The Championship side confirmed they are reviewing their legal options but declined to comment further.

Westminster City Council issued an apology, acknowledging the “improper use” of the badge and describing the illustration as insensitive. The council confirmed the booklet has been withdrawn from circulation and that any remaining copies will be destroyed, with internal processes now under review.

The Paul Canoville Foundation also distanced itself from the material, stating it had no involvement in the creation or approval of the booklet. The foundation said its role in the wider programme was limited to Canoville sharing his personal experiences with students.

In a statement, the foundation noted that the illustration referenced a real incident from Canoville’s playing career, when he was subjected to racist abuse by individuals wearing KKK-style hoods during a reserve match.

Canoville, who played for Chelsea between 1981 and 1986, was the club’s first Black player and has since been active in anti-racism education work.

The controversy comes as Millwall continue their push for promotion, sitting third in the Championship and level on points with second-placed Ipswich Town.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.

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