Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri became embroiled in controversy due to accusations of threatening Leeds United fans with an act of spitting during a Premier League match at Turf Moor on October 18, 2025. The 22-year-old midfielder from Tunisia, who previously played for Manchester United, was introduced as a late substitute before this accusation that has triggered investigations from the Football Association (FA) and Lancashire Police, among others. This blog on 96 official website outlines key details of Hannibal Mejbri’s alleged spitting incident.
What Allegedly Happened
As per multiple reports, the alleged incident was reported to have occurred late in Burnley’s 2-0 win against Leeds United. Mejbri was substituted into the game in the 83rd minute and received a yellow card for a foul on Gabriel Gudmundsson near the end of stoppage time. Shortly after Gudmundsson’s challenge, a Leeds supporter in the away section brought the issue to the attention of stewards. They told the stewards that Mejbri spat in their direction of the fans in the away section.
Lancashire Police confirmed they had received a complaint and were working with Burnley FC to “establish the facts.” At the same time, the FA have started to review the footage of the match to ascertain if any further action or disciplinary proceedings are justified. So far, neither Burnley nor Mejbri have made a detailed public statement. The club is assumed to be cooperating with both investigations.
Status of the Investigation
At this point, no charges or disciplinary measures have been made public. Normally, the FA will review available video, referees’ reports, and witness statements to decide whether to issue a misconduct charge. If suspended for spitting and the allegation involves spitting towards the crowd, Mejbri could face at least a six-match ban, and potentially much longer, based on the evidence provided and the severity of the action in question.
Additionally, Lancashire Police are assessing whether the allegation constitutes an offence of assault or public order, although any prosecution would require evidence of intent or contact.
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Why the Case Is Significant
Under FA regulations, spitting in football is one of the most serious disciplinary offences, regarded as both unsporting and disrespectful. Whether the alleged action was directed towards an opposing player or someone in the stands is particularly relevant.
For Mejbri, who came to Burnley in 2024 as a result of coming through Manchester United’s academy, this event has occurred at a particularly significant moment in his development. Mejbri has a reputation for being a very intense player, and the severity of his reputational impact could be severe with a guilty finding.
As with El-Hadji Diouf, who was once expelled for spitting at fans in any case where the supposed victim of the alleged behaviour is a fan, the FA is not very tolerant of these cases. The factors of a late substitution, the heated atmosphere on the field, and a more direct complaint from a fan make this a prominent disciplinary case for the player as well as for Burnley.
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What to Expect Next
Evidence Review: The FA and Lancashire Police will review CCTV, broadcast footage, and steward reports.
Club Cooperation: Burnley FC will continue to cooperate with authorities while administering their own internal discipline for the player.
Potential Charge: If the FA finds enough evidence to pursue disciplinary action, Mejbri could have a misconduct charge issued.
Hearing and Sanction: If the misconduct hearing finds Mejbri guilty, he can expect a minimum of six matches banned from participating, and possible fines and further bans.
Public Statements: Both Burnley FC and the FA are likely to publicly react with official statements after a decision has been announced.
Conclusion
At this point, the allegation has not been proven, and Mejbri has not been disciplined objectively. But this is taking place under the watchful eye and management of the FA and Lancashire Police. The next few weeks will reveal if Mejbri moves forward with any discipline or if he is cleared of any wrongdoing. Regardless, this highlights the importance of player behaviour, and the stage under scrutiny of the Premier League. Follow 96 APK in the weeks ahead for further updates, official statements, and the outcome of their review of such a high-profile case at the Premier League level.
FAQs
Q1. When did the incident happen?
It reportedly took place on 18 October 2025, during Burnley’s 2-0 home win over Leeds United.
Q2. Who is investigating the case?
Both the Football Association and Lancashire Police are reviewing the incident.
Q3. Has Hannibal Mejbri been charged?
No. As of now, no formal charge or suspension has been issued.
Q4. What punishment could he face if found guilty?
If proven, Mejbri could receive a six-match or longer ban and possibly a fine under FA misconduct rules.
Q5. What has Burnley FC said?
Burnley have confirmed they are cooperating with authorities, but have not released any detailed public comment yet.
