FA explains Hannibal Mejbri four-game ban after Leeds incident, cites act of defiance amid alleged abuse | OneFootball

The FA has released its written reasons for the suspension handed to Burnley’s Hannibal Mejbri after he admitted spitting towards Leeds United supporters, with mitigation referencing an act of defiance amid alleged abuse.

According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, the incident happened in the second half of October’s game at Turf Moor, when Mejbri ran past the away end, then turned and spat into the air towards travelling fans. Footage circulated online and an FA enquiry followed. He admitted misconduct and received a four-game ban, with two matches served during international duty, plus a £15,000 fine.

Mejbri spat into the air and said he did not intend to hit anyone, framing it as a defiant response to what he described as taunts from Leeds fans. The commission considered the racism he has experienced and alleged goading over a separate case involving Preston North End’s Milutin Osmajic. The decision in that case had not been published at the time of the match, and Osmajic was later banned for nine matches.

Burnley argued the automatic six-game ban should not apply because this was not spitting at an opponent or person. They also said the spittle did not land close to supporters or make contact, and asked for only a warning. The panel credited Mejbri’s cooperation, early admission, remorse and apology, but rejected a warning, calling spitting abhorrent and inexcusable while finding mitigation to reduce the sanction.

Mejbri has since returned to action after his suspension and AFCON duty with Tunisia.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk