PNE's Milutin Osmajic hit with nine-game ban after racially abusing Burnley's Hannibal

The 26-year-old has also been fined £21,000 and ordered to attend a mandatory education course.

It comes after the Preston North End striker was charged in March after being accused of racially abusing Burnley’s Hannibal during the 0-0 draw between the two sides at Deepdale in February.

Osmajic refuted the claims.

Speaking on social media after the game, Hannibal said “he will not be silent” and promised to “always call out racism” whenever he heard it.

It’s understood Preston CAN appeal should they wish to do so by taking it to a higher commission.

What have the FA said?

"An independent Regulatory Commission has sanctioned Preston North End FC’s Milutin Osmajić for a proven breach of FA Rule E3.

“It was alleged that the forward had breached FA Rule E3.1 by acting in an improper manner and/or using abusive and/or insulting words towards a Burnley FC player during their EFL Championship fixture on Saturday, February 15.

“It was also alleged that this matter constitutes an “aggravated breach”, which is defined in FA Rule E3.2, as the words included a reference – whether express or implied – to colour and/or race.

“Milutin Osmajić denied the charge against him, which the regulatory commission found to be proven, and it has imposed an immediate nine-match suspension, £21,000 fine and mandatory education course.

“The regulatory commission’s written reasons for its decisions will be published in due course.”

What have PNE said in response?

“We are extremely disappointed at the decision made by an independent regulatory commission to sanction Milutin Osmajić and impose a nine-match suspension, following an incident which took place in a league fixture against Burnley on February 15, 2025.

“We note that the outcome was determined on the 'balance of probabilities' rather than one that is 'beyond reasonable doubt'.

“We also note that the FA determined that this decision offers no moral judgement, was not premeditated nor any comment about his general character.

“Milutin has always pleaded his innocence of the charge and continues to do so. We continue to be fully supportive of our player.

“We are proud of our equality, diversity and Inclusion policies and practices, and we reaffirm our opposition to all forms of discrimination.”

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