I’mMaguire Hit with One-Match Ban and £30,000 Fine Over Official Abuse
Harry Maguire has been handed a one-match suspension and a £30,000 fine by The Football Association following misconduct towards a match official during Manchester United’s Premier League clash with AFC Bournemouth on 20 March 2026.
The defender was sent off in the 78th minute for denying a goal-scoring opportunity before confronting the fourth official while leaving the pitch. According to the official report, he said: “You’re all a fucking joke.”
Maguire denied directing abuse at any individual, stating he only remarked that the situation was “a fucking joke.”
Despite already serving his automatic red-card suspension in the defeat to Leeds United, the additional punishment means he will also miss United’s trip to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea FC.
Commission Sides with Officials
The Regulatory Commission reviewed referee and fourth official reports, video evidence, and player submissions before ruling in favour of the match officials.
It stated it “preferred the evidence” of the fourth official, who was “categorical” about the language used.
The panel added that even under Maguire’s version of events, the comments were still “abusive in nature” and in breach of FA Rule E3.1.
Sanction Reduced After Mitigation
Although the case could have resulted in a harsher penalty, the Commission reduced the suspension to one match after considering mitigating factors, including Maguire’s early admission, apology, and clean disciplinary record.
A fine was also reduced from an initial £45,000 to £30,000.