The Football Association (FA) has launched an investigation into an alleged racist remark directed at Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri during Saturday’s goalless draw against Preston North End at Deepdale.
Mejbri has accused Preston forward Milutin Osmajic of making a racist comment during the match, an allegation that Osmajic has strongly denied.
FA Awaits Official Match Report
The alleged incident was immediately reported to match referee Andrew Kitchen, and the FA is set to receive the official’s report on Monday, which will include details of the complaint.
Following the game, Mejbri took to Instagram to speak out against racism:
“I will not be silent about what happened. I will always call out racism whenever I hear or see it. That is the only way we change as a sport and a society. I am a strong person, but nobody should have to experience this disgusting abuse on the pitch.”
Burnley FC has confirmed that they are aware of the alleged comment and have pledged their full support to the 22-year-old midfielder.
Preston North End Defends Osmajic
In a statement on Saturday, Preston North End responded to the allegations, saying:
“Milutin Osmajic has strongly refuted the claims of a comment made towards Hannibal Mejbri in a post-match meeting with today’s match officials.”
Preston’s stance adds further scrutiny to the FA’s ongoing investigation, which will determine whether any disciplinary action is required.
Scott Parker Backs Mejbri
Burnley manager Scott Parker expressed concern for Mejbri, stating that the player was visibly distressed following the incident.
“He’s hurt. I think everyone could see that at the time. Hannibal’s an emotional player, and he was visibly very stressed by what was said. I don’t want to get into the real details, but Hannibal is bitterly gutted, so we’ll see what happens in the coming days.”
FA Cup Rematch Adds Tension
The controversy adds further intensity to the upcoming FA Cup fifth-round clash between Burnley and Preston on March 1, when the two sides will meet again at Deepdale.
Osmajic’s Disciplinary History Under Scrutiny
This is not the first time Milutin Osmajic has faced disciplinary issues. In October 2024, he received an eight-match ban for biting Blackburn’s Owen Beck during a match. He admitted the charge of violent conduct and was fined £15,000.
As the FA’s investigation unfolds, football fans and anti-racism organizations will be closely watching how the authorities handle the case.
