The FA has launched an investigation into allegations that Preston North End’s Milutin Osmajic racially abused Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri during their goalless draw at Deepdale on Saturday.
Hannibal, 22, immediately reported the incident to match referee Andrew Kitchen, with fourth official John Busby also taking notes as Burnley manager Scott Parker observed. The FA is expected to receive the referee’s official match report on Monday, which will provide further details of the alleged remark.
Hannibal Speaks Out
Following the match, Hannibal took to Instagram to address the situation, making it clear that he will not stay silent on the issue of racism in football.
“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 have since issued a statement confirming that they are “aware of an alleged comment” and have pledged their full support to the Tunisian international.
FA Investigation and Club Responses
Preston swiftly addressed the allegations in a statement, defending their player while committing to full cooperation with the authorities.
“Milutin Osmajic has strongly refuted the claims of a comment made towards Hannibal Mejbri in a post-match meeting with today’s match officials,” the club stated.
Speaking after the game, Burnley boss Parker commented on the emotional toll the situation has taken on Hannibal.
“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,” Parker told BBC Sport.
Football Bodies React
The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) has reached out to Burnley to offer their support to Hannibal, while anti-discrimination organisation Kick It Out (KIO) has praised him for his immediate response.
“When allegations occur, reporting them immediately and through the right channels helps them be addressed,” KIO said in a statement.
“Hannibal deserves credit for bringing the incident to the referee’s attention. Speaking up takes huge courage. We also commend the officials for following the correct protocols. We expect an investigation to be carried out swiftly and sensitively.”
Meanwhile, Osmajic remains under scrutiny, having previously been banned for eight games in October after admitting to biting Blackburn’s Owen Beck. The Montenegro international was also fined £15,000 for the incident.
Writer’s View
This latest racism allegation once again brings football’s ongoing battle against discrimination into the spotlight. Hannibal’s quick response and the support he has received highlight the importance of speaking up, but the real test now is how the FA handles the investigation. Given Osmajic’s recent disciplinary history, this case will be closely watched.
