Former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg has revealed the length of ban Burnley player Hannibal Mejbri could face after an allegation of spitting during the game against Leeds United.
Leeds United confirmed that they were aware of an allegation of spitting against Hannibal during a heated game, as the Whites slipped to a 2-0 defeat.
The complaint was brought by a member of the crowd who accused the Burnley man of the act. Hannibal posted on Instagram after the game but did not refer to the incident, focusing instead on his side’s win.
Now, speaking exclusively to Leeds United News, respected former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg has shared details of what punishment Hannibal could face if he is found guilty in the impending Football Association investigation.
Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty ImagesMark Clattenburg on Hannibal Mejbri incident vs Leeds United
Speaking to Leeds United News, Clattenburg explained what will happen next following the allegation against the Burnley player.
According to Clattenburg, if Hannibal is found to have spat at a Leeds fan, he will face a minimum suspension of three games from the Football Association.
Clattenburg said: “Hannibal Mejbri of Burnley is under investigation by the Football Association after an alleged spitting incident after a Leeds fan reported him for spitting into the away section support at Turf Moor.
“The Football Association will interview players, fans and study available video before making any charges.
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“If charged, Hannibal could receive a suspension which the Football Association will determine, and I think will be at least three matches.”
Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty ImagesCould Hannibal face further punishment for alleged spitting incident?
Whilst Clattenburg’s comments focus on the sporting sanction that Hannibal may face, there is precedent for a potential off-field sanction if the player is found to have spat at a member of the crowd.
In 2002, former Leeds United player El-Hadji Diouf was fined £5,000 by the Glasgow Sheriff Court after pleading guilty to assault by provocation for spitting at a Celtic fan during a UEFA Cup match between Liverpool and the Scottish side.
Leeds United are aware of an allegation of spitting by a Burnley player believed to be Hannibal. The authorities are investigating after a complaint was made from a supporter in the Leeds United section at Turf Moor. #LUFC
— Adam Pope (@apopey) October 18, 2025
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Speaking via an article in the Guardian from 2003, Sheriff Craig McSherry QC justified the fine, stating: “I feel it necessary for the court to show disapproval of this type of behaviour.” Diouf also received a two-match ban from UEFA competitions following the incident.
The Burnley player now faces an anxious wait as investigations into the allegation seek to determine whether any further sanction is required.