FA charges Cardiff's Bielik for Fratton Park fan clash after police drop assault probe

Krystian Bielik faces an FA misconduct charge after Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary dropped their common assault investigation into the Cardiff City midfielder, accepting an apology from the 28-year-old as an out-of-court resolution following a clash with a Portsmouth supporter at Fratton Park on 5 September.

Footage that circulated widely on social media appeared to show Bielik grabbing a young Pompey fan by the throat after the supporter slapped him while he went to collect the ball for a throw-in. The incident, which occurred around the 71st minute of Cardiff’s 2-0 defeat, briefly halted play, though the referee took no action against the player at the time. The fan was ejected from the stadium.

In a statement, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary confirmed: “After speaking with the complainant and reviewing all available evidence, the matter has been resolved by way of an out-of-court disposal, agreed by all parties involved. As part of this resolution, an apology has been provided by the player. The matter is now considered closed, and no further action will be taken.”

The police closure has not ended Bielik’s troubles, however. The FA confirmed it has charged him with misconduct, stating: “It’s alleged that the player acted in an improper manner around the 71st minute of the match. Krystian Bielik has until 25 September to provide a response.”

Cardiff had previously defended the handling of the situation on the pitch, saying they were “satisfied with the way that match officials dealt with the situation during the game” and that “player protection will always be of paramount importance.”

Bielik, a former Poland international who began his career at Arsenal, joined Cardiff from West Brom in the summer transfer window and has made six appearances for Brian Barry-Murphy’s side. The Bluebirds have endured a difficult start to the Championship season, sitting 21st in the table with just one win from their opening eight matches.