Football Association release statement over Hannibal Mejbri controversy vs Leeds
The FA have confirmed that Hannibal Mejbri has been charged for a controversial incident involving Leeds United.
Hannibal was accused of spitting at Leeds supporters in the 67th minute of the Clarets’ 2-0 win over the Whites on 18 October.
Footage was shared on the incident and the FA started an investigation into the matter, which has now concluded.
Hannibal could face a ban and a fine for the Leeds incident, and that seems like a likely possibility after a statement was shared by English football’s governing body on 11 November.
FA charge Hannibal for spitting incident vs Leeds
Leeds fans were incensed by the incident, and rightfully so, as it is a truly disgusting act, and it seems that there is enough evidence that it took place.
The FA have charged the Clarets star with misconduct, and he has until 28 November to provide his response to the charge.
A statement from the organisation, via X, said: “Burnley’s Hannibal Mejbri has been charged with misconduct following their Premier League fixture against Leeds United on Saturday 18 October.
“It is alleged the player acted in breach of the laws of the game and/or in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or indecent behaviour by spitting at or in the direction of Leeds United supporters around the 67th minute.
“Hannibal Mejbri has until Friday 28 November to provide a response.”
What were previous punishments for spitting offences?
The FA will likely look to previous precedent if the charge is not disputed by Hannibal, to punish the former Manchester United flop.
Jonny Evans and Papiss Cisse were involved in a spitting incident in 2010, with the former getting a six-match suspension and the latter getting seven, due to a previous misconduct charge.
West Brom ace Goran Popov was charged with the same offence in 2013, and he was sent off and received a three-match ban.
Hull City’s George Boyd was also handed a three-game ban after being spotted spitting at Manchester City’s Joe Hart in 2014.
It seems likely that the very least that he will receive is a three-match suspension then, if he cannot provide evidence to mitigate the offence when he responds.
The most harsh punishment that he could receive is probably a six-game ban, as that is the precedent for the more serious offences.
It depends on how serious the FA views the incident as to how far they decide to punish the 22-year-old, and he faces a nervous wait to see what the implications to his actions are.
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