Brian Curson, a Pro Ref referee observer, has been suspended for nine weeks and fined £200 following an investigation by the Football Association (FA) into discriminatory remarks he allegedly made after a League One match between Luton Town and Rotherham United on 15 November 2025. The incident occurred in the lounge at Kenilworth Road, where Curson was assessing the officiating team. An allegation was made that he made two discriminatory comments, prompting the FA to launch an investigation into his conduct.

Curson was charged with acting in an improper manner and/or using abusive and/or insulting words, which the FA classified as an 'aggravated breach'. The remarks reportedly included references to ethnic origin, race, or nationality, which are serious violations of the FA's code of conduct. Despite Curson's claim that he did not recall making the comments, the FA commission concluded that there was sufficient evidence to support the allegations, stating they were satisfied on the balance of probabilities that the comments had been made.S1S2

With over 40 years of experience in football, Curson's suspension reflects the FA's commitment to addressing discrimination within the sport. The governing body requested a time-based sanction, indicating that a player in a similar situation would face a suspension of between nine and 12 matches. Ultimately, the FA decided on a nine-week suspension for Curson, who is also required to attend a mandatory education programme as part of his penalty, along with a warning regarding his future conduct.S1S2