FA raises minimum ban for discriminatory conduct to 10 matches
England’s Football Association will raise the standard minimum ban for discriminatory conduct from six to 10 matches when the new season begins.
In short
- England’s Football Association will raise the standard minimum ban for discriminatory conduct from six to 10 matches when the new season begins.
The Football Association will raise the standard minimum suspension for discriminatory conduct from six matches to 10 at the start of the new season, strengthening sanctions for racism and other prohibited discrimination in English football.
The revised guidance applies to players and other football participants found guilty of an aggravated breach of the FA’s improper-conduct rules. Independent regulatory commissions may impose a suspension below 10 matches only when sufficient mitigating factors are established and the accused has pleaded guilty.
The FA said discriminatory conduct remains a challenge across the game despite progress in recent years. Its changes are intended to create a stronger baseline punishment while preserving limited discretion for disciplinary panels.
Cases involving discriminatory statements made only in writing or through a communications device may, where mitigating factors are accepted, receive suspensions as short as three matches. Repeat offenders could face bans exceeding one year.
During the 2025-26 season, 10 people were found guilty of aggravated breaches, with suspensions ranging from six to nine matches. The new standard therefore raises the floor above every ban imposed in those cases.
The change was reported on July 30, 2026, by both The Guardian and Sky Sports. It will take effect when the next English football season begins.
