Preston Forward Handed Lengthy Ban Following FA Investigation
Preston North End striker Milutin Osmajic has been suspended for nine matches after an independent regulatory commission found him guilty of an alleged racially aggravated offence against Burnley's Hannibal Mejbri. The incident occurred during a heated Championship derby between the two Lancashire clubs at Deepdale in February 2025, a match that ultimately finished goalless.
Club Expresses Disappointment as Player Maintains Innocence
Preston North End have publicly declared themselves "extremely disappointed" with the Football Association's decision to impose the significant suspension. In an official club statement, they highlighted that the outcome was determined on the 'Balance of Probabilities' rather than the stricter legal standard of 'Beyond Reasonable Doubt'.
The club's statement further noted that the FA determined the decision "offers no moral judgement, was not premeditated nor any comment about his general character." Despite the ruling, the Montenegro international continues to plead his innocence, with the club affirming they remain "fully supportive of our player."
Financial Penalty and Education Course Ordered
In addition to the immediate nine-match ban, which represents a substantial portion of the season, the 26-year-old forward has been hit with a £21,000 fine. The regulatory commission also mandated that Osmajic must attend a mandatory education course.
The FA's official statement confirmed that Osmajic was charged with an "aggravated breach" of their E3 rules, relating to improper conduct and the use of abusive and/or insulting words that included a reference, either express or implied, to colour and/or race. The commission found the allegations proven despite the player's denial of the charge.
Osmajic, who joined Preston from Spanish side Cadiz in September 2023, has made 11 league appearances this season, scoring four goals. The written reasons for the regulatory commission's decision are expected to be published at a later date.
