Preston Striker Handed Significant Suspension
Preston North End forward Milutin Osmajic has been suspended from football for nine matches after an independent regulatory commission found him guilty of making racist comments. The incident involved Burnley player Hannibal Mejbri during a Sky Bet Championship match last season in February.
FA's Verdict and Club's Reaction
Despite Osmajic's consistent denial of the charges, the Football Association's commission ruled that the allegations were proven on the "balance of probabilities". In response to the decision, Preston North End issued a statement expressing "extreme disappointment".
The club reaffirmed its support for the player while simultaneously stressing its unwavering commitment to the fight against discrimination and its own anti-discrimination policies.
Punishment and Mandatory Education
Alongside the significant nine-game suspension, the FA has imposed a £21,000 fine on the Montenegrin international. Furthermore, Osmajic has been mandated to complete an education course, a move often used by the governing body in such cases to address the underlying issues.
The ruling highlights the ongoing challenges with racism within the sport, coming shortly after high-profile incidents involving players like Vinicius Jr, who emotionally broke down when discussing the abuse he has faced.
