Football referee observer handed nine-week ban for discriminatory remarks

Brian Curson visited Kenilworth Road to assess officials during a League One fixture between Luton Town and Rotherham United. Following the game on 15 November 2025, an allegation was made that he uttered two discriminatory remarks in the stadium lounge. An FA commission investigated the incident and concluded on the balance of probabilities that the comments were made, despite Curson stating he did not recall them. Curson, who no longer works for Pro Ref, received an aggravated breach charge for using words referencing race, ethnic origin, or nationality. Along with the nine-week suspension and £200 fine, Curson was given a formal warning about his future conduct and ordered to attend a mandatory education programme. The sanction was determined by taking his role and experience into account.