FA RAISES MINIMUM BAN FOR DISCRIMINATION TO 10 MATCHES

The Football Association has increased the minimum suspension for discriminatory behaviour from six matches to 10 matches, effective from the start of the new season. The change applies to players and other football participants found guilty of an "aggravated breach" of FA disciplinary rules on improper conduct involving discrimination against protected characteristics. The FA stated that discriminatory conduct "continues to be a challenge across the game" and that "enhanced measures are necessary to tackle this abhorrent conduct".

During the 2024-25 season, 10 individuals were found guilty of aggravated breaches, with punishments ranging from six to nine matches. One case involved Preston player Milutin Osmajic, who was found to have made racist remarks to Burnley player Hannibal Mejbri during a Championship match and received a nine-match ban and £20,000 fine. Under the new rules, punishments below 10 matches will only be permitted if sufficient mitigating factors are presented and the individual pleads guilty to the charge. Online discrimination cases may receive punishments as low as three matches if mitigating factors are accepted.

The FA said it remains committed to delivering "a game free from discrimination". The rule change reflects growing concern that discriminatory behaviour by professional players has influenced conduct throughout lower levels of football, creating problems in grassroots settings. Regulatory Commissions will retain flexibility in applying the new guidelines whilst maintaining the enhanced minimum standard.