Oldham Athletic's Kian Harratt Under Investigation After Chair Incident

In a troubling incident captured on video, Kian Harratt, a player for Oldham Athletic Football Club, expressed regret following the release of footage showing him throwing a chair that struck a woman during a confrontation in Ibiza. The incident, which occurred at a hotel in the San Antonio area, has prompted the club to launch a thorough investigation.

According to Angela Ferguson, a reporter for BBC News, the videos circulating on social media depict Harratt and a group of males engaged in an argument with other holidaymakers. The situation escalated when Harratt allegedly threw a chair, resulting in the injury of a woman, who fell to the ground upon impact. The footage has sparked widespread outrage online, leading Harratt to address the situation via TikTok, where he stated, "I feel terrible," and described the incident as being misrepresented in the videos shared online.

The club issued a statement condemning violence of any kind, emphasizing their commitment to conducting a comprehensive investigation into the matter. A spokesperson for Oldham Athletic stated, "Until the outcome of that investigation, there will be no further comment." This incident raises serious concerns regarding player conduct and the responsibilities of athletes as public figures.

Harratt, who joined Oldham Athletic in March 2025, has faced backlash following the incident. In his TikTok response, he emphasized that the videos do not show the full context of the incident, suggesting that his actions were misinterpreted and asserting that he and his friends were only acting in a manner typical of friends enjoying a night out.

Experts in sports ethics have weighed in on the implications of this incident. Dr. James Sanders, a sports ethics professor at the University of Manchester, commented, "Athletes must recognize that their actions, especially in public settings, reflect not just on themselves but also on their clubs and the wider community. The responsibility is greater than ever in the age of social media, where every action is scrutinized."

The incident also raises questions about accountability within sports organizations. According to Dr. Emily Thompson, a sports management expert from Loughborough University, "Clubs must take a proactive stance in addressing player conduct off the field. This situation underscores the importance of educating athletes about their behavior and its potential repercussions."

As the investigation proceeds, the ramifications of Harratt’s actions could extend beyond personal consequences, potentially affecting team dynamics and public perception of Oldham Athletic. The club's handling of the situation will be crucial in maintaining its reputation and fostering a culture of accountability among its players.

In conclusion, the incident involving Kian Harratt serves as a reminder of the intersection between sports, ethics, and societal expectations. The outcome of the investigation will not only impact Harratt's career but also set a precedent for how similar incidents are addressed in the future. As sports organizations navigate these challenges, the call for a more responsible sporting culture becomes increasingly urgent.