In a bizarre incident, a 62-year-old Everton fan has been handed a lifetime ban from the new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock after he filmed himself stealing food at the first test event.
The new 52,888-seater will host the Toffees’ home games from next season as the club prepares to bid goodbye to Goodison Park towards the end of the 2024-25 league season.
The Everton Stadium has already hosted fans inside as part of two test events. It opened its doors to 10,000 lucky Evertonians who were in attendance to watch the club’s U18 side take on Wigan Athletic in a friendly on February 17. While that day will be remembered forever in the club’s history as the day a new era began, one particular fan now finds himself in trouble after a video of him stealing food caught the club’s attention.
The man was seen buying a box of chicken strips at the food counter before the server turned away to make him a coffee. Taking advantage of the situation, he walked away from the counter without paying and even said “adios amigo”.
“Following enquiries into a social media clip showing clear theft of food during the first test event at Everton Stadium (17 February 2025), a 62-year-old male from the Rainhill area was identified as being responsible,” a club spokesperson said.
“The matter was referred to Merseyside Police and the individual has been dealt with by means of an out-of-court disposal. As part of this resolution, he has agreed to make a donation equivalent to the cost of the stolen items (£12.75) to Everton in the Community.
“In line with the club’s zero-tolerance approach to such behaviour, the individual has also been issued with an indefinite ban from Everton Football Club and his seasonal membership has been revoked.
“The club will continue to work with local authorities and event staff to ensure that all visitors to Everton Stadium can enjoy a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment.”