Milutin Osmajic: Preston striker handed nine-match ban and £21,000 fine for alleged racist abuse of Burnley’s Hannibal | Football news
Preston striker Milutin Osmajic has been handed a nine-match ban for allegedly racially abusing Burnley’s Hannibal Mejbri earlier this year.
It was alleged that the striker breached FA Rule E3.1 by acting inappropriately and/or using abusive and/or insulting words towards the Clarets midfielder during their Championship match on February 15.
It was also alleged that this matter constituted an “aggravated offence”, defined in FA Rule E3.2, as the words included a reference – express or implied – to color and/or race.
Osmajic has denied the accusations against him.
However, an independent regulatory commission deemed the charge proven and imposed an immediate nine-match ban, a £21,000 fine and a compulsory training course.
The FA says the regulatory commission’s written reasons “will be published in due course”.
The 26-year-old will not be available to play again until North End’s trip to Stoke on Boxing Day.
A statement released by Preston said: “We are extremely disappointed by the decision by an independent regulatory committee to sanction Milutin Osmajic and impose a nine-match ban, following an incident during a Championship match against Burnley on February 15, 2025.
“We note that the outcome was determined on a ‘balance of probabilities’ rather than a ‘beyond a reasonable doubt’ decision.
“We also note that the FA has determined that this decision does not involve any moral judgment, was not premeditated or any comment on its general character.
“Milutin has always pleaded his innocence and continues to do so. We continue to fully support our player.
“We are proud of our equity, diversity and inclusion policies and practices, and we reaffirm our opposition to all forms of discrimination.”
After the February match, Hannibal posted on X: “I will not remain silent about what happened today. I will always speak out against racism whenever I hear or see it. This is the only way we can change as a sport and a society.
“I am a strong person but no one should have to endure this disgusting abuse on the pitch.”
