The commercial director of League Two football club Morecambe FC has been suspended after being accused of supporting a banned terrorist organisation. Gurpreet Singh Rehal, a key figure in the club's off-field operations, is alleged to have expressed support for Sikh separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ).
Allegations and Immediate Suspension
The allegations against Gurpreet Singh Rehal came to light following a report by the Daily Mail on Friday, 5 December 2025. The report claims that Rehal, in his role as commercial director, made statements supporting the objectives of Sikhs for Justice. This group is proscribed as a terrorist organisation in India and has been banned from operating in the UK since July 2022 under terrorism legislation.
In a swift response to the serious allegations, Morecambe Football Club announced it had suspended Rehal with immediate effect. The club confirmed the suspension is pending the outcome of a full and thorough investigation. The club stated it "utterly condemns terrorism in all its forms" and is cooperating fully with the relevant authorities.
Who is Gurpreet Singh Rehal and What is Sikhs for Justice?
Gurpreet Singh Rehal has been a prominent figure at Morecambe FC, overseeing commercial partnerships and revenue streams vital for a club of its size. His suspension creates a significant gap in the club's business operations during a critical period of the football season.
The group at the centre of the allegations, Sikhs for Justice, advocates for the creation of an independent Sikh state called Khalistan in the Punjab region of India. The Indian government has long accused the group of promoting separatism and violence. The UK government's decision to ban the group in 2022 made membership or support for SFJ a criminal offence, carrying a potential prison sentence of up to 14 years.
Investigation and Wider Repercussions
The investigation into Rehal's alleged activities is now underway. It is understood that both club officials and potentially UK counter-terrorism police will be involved in examining the evidence. The case places Morecambe FC, a community-focused club, under an unwelcome national spotlight unrelated to its sporting endeavours.
The fallout extends beyond the club, touching on sensitive issues of community relations and national security. It raises questions about due diligence in appointments for high-profile roles within public-facing institutions like football clubs. The football community and the club's supporters will be watching closely as the facts of this disturbing case are established.
For now, Morecambe FC must navigate this crisis off the pitch while continuing its campaign in League Two. The club has emphasised its commitment to its values and the law, but the situation remains a serious challenge to its reputation and internal stability.
