Swindon Town Football Club has launched a fierce attack on the Football Association after its captain, Ollie Clarke, was handed a substantial seven-match ban. The 33-year-old midfielder admitted to two charges of misconduct during a cup tie earlier this season.
The Incidents and the FA's Ruling
The charges against Ollie Clarke stem from two separate incidents during Swindon Town's 2-1 defeat to Cardiff City in the Carabao Cup third round on Tuesday, 12 August 2025. The FA alleged that Clarke acted in an improper manner and used indecent behaviour towards an opponent in the 57th minute, and then again towards another opposing player in the 94th minute.
An independent Regulatory Commission heard the case, with Clarke admitting to the charges. The commission subsequently imposed a seven-game suspension and a £2,750 fine. The FA stated that the full written reasons for the decision will be published at a later date.
Swindon Town's Forceful Response
In an official statement, the League Two club expressed its strong disapproval. "Swindon Town Football Club strongly condemns the decision," the statement began. The club argued that the verdict was not based on proof beyond reasonable doubt but instead on the balance of probabilities.
The club's statement went further, highlighting the personal toll on their skipper. "We are concerned by the prolonged nature of the proceedings and the impact this process has had on Ollie's mental well-being," it read. The club affirmed its unwavering support for Clarke, stating his character and integrity have never been in question and that he retains the full backing of the management and his teammates.
Impact on Swindon's Season
The suspension deals a significant blow to manager Ian Holloway's promotion-chasing side. Swindon currently sit third in League Two, just two points off the top spot. Clarke's ban rules him out for the entire festive fixture schedule.
His return is now scheduled for Tuesday, 13 January 2026, when Swindon face Luton Town in the last 16 of the EFL Trophy. The timing is particularly frustrating for the player, who recently claimed he was in the best form of his Swindon career, scoring in a 3-0 win over Bristol Rovers just last week.
As the club pledges to continue supporting their captain, the controversy raises questions about the FA's disciplinary process and its impact on players and clubs in the EFL.
