Police investigate Bielik fan incident

Police and Portsmouth Football Club are investigating an incident involving Cardiff City defender Krystian Bielik and a young supporter during a Championship match at Fratton Park on Saturday, September 5, 2026. The confrontation occurred during the second half of Portsmouth's 2-0 victory, with video footage appearing to show Bielik making contact with the fan's neck or upper body as he attempted to retrieve the ball for a throw-in. The incident took place around the 72nd minute, with Cardiff trailing 2-0. Bielik went to the touchline to collect the ball after it went into the stands. According to both club managers, a "kerfuffle" ensued. Cardiff manager Brian Barry-Murphy stated that Bielik was slapped in the face by the supporter, while Portsmouth boss John Mousinho confirmed that a supporter struck the player. Video evidence circulating online appears to show Bielik grabbing the young fan, with the supporter responding with a slap. The referee, Ben Speedie, halted the game to consult with players and staff before play resumed. The supporter was ejected from the stadium by stewards, and Bielik was not shown a second yellow card despite being on a booking.