Police and the FA investigate Premier League star over spitting at Leeds fans allegations

Callum Vurley

By Callum Vurley


Published: 20/10/2025

- 19:13

The Burnley star has been accused of spitting at Leeds fans

The Football Association has launched an inquiry into claims that Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri spat towards Leeds United supporters during Saturday's Premier League encounter at Turf Moor.

Lancashire Police confirmed they are examining the allegations after receiving a complaint from an away supporter following Burnley's 2-0 victory.


A police spokesperson stated: "Lancashire Police are aware of an alleged incident involving a Burnley player during the second half of the Premier League game between Burnley and Leeds United at Turf Moor yesterday (October 18).

"We are currently working with Burnley Football Club to establish the facts."

The 22-year-old Tunisia international, who progressed through Manchester United's academy system, has become the subject of both police and FA investigations into the alleged incident.

Mejbri entered the match as a substitute in the 83rd minute during Scott Parker's side's victory over Daniel Farke's team.

Hannibal Mejbri had a boisterous cameo against Leeds, which also saw him booked

Hannibal Mejbri had a boisterous cameo against Leeds, which also saw him booked

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PA

The midfielder received a yellow card during injury time after confronting Gabriel Gudmundsson following a robust challenge on the Leeds defender near the technical areas.

Following the final whistle, a supporter from the visiting section reported the alleged spitting incident to authorities. Both clubs have acknowledged they are aware of the complaint that has been lodged.

The FA typically conducts preliminary assessments of match-related incidents before determining whether to pursue formal investigations.

Whilst the governing body has not issued public comment, sources indicate they have initiated their own review process alongside the ongoing police inquiry.

Burnley have confirmed they are cooperating with Lancashire Police's investigation into the matter. The club declined to provide additional comment when approached about the allegations.

This is not the first time Mejbri has been involved in controversy with Leeds supporters.

Hannibal Mejbri is under investigation after allegedly spitting at Leeds fans

Hannibal Mejbri is under investigation after allegedly spitting at Leeds fans

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REUTERS

During last season's Championship fixture at Elland Road, which Burnley won 1-0, the midfielder appeared to gesture provocatively towards the home fans whilst being substituted, raising his arms as he walked behind the goal towards the dugout.

The alleged incident occurred during a match that saw Burnley secure just their second Premier League victory of the campaign.

Goals from Lesley Ugochukwu and Loum Tchaouna sealed the three points for the Clarets, despite Leeds dominating possession and registering 14 shots compared to Burnley's three.

The timing of these allegations comes as Mejbri awaits the outcome of racism accusations he levelled against Preston North End striker Milutin Osmajic.

The Montenegrin forward was charged by the FA in March following an incident during Preston's Championship draw with Burnley last February.

Hannibal is awaiting the outcome of racism accusations he levelled against Preston North End striker Milutin Osmajic

Hannibal is awaiting the outcome of racism accusations he levelled against Preston North End striker Milutin Osmajic

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PA

Preston manager Paul Heckingbottom indicated last week that a verdict is expected by the end of this month, following a hearing that took place in late September.

Saturday's victory proved crucial for Scott Parker's team, lifting them clear of the relegation zone. The result leaves Burnley just one point behind Leeds, who occupy 15th position with eight points from eight matches.

Leeds have yet to comment publicly on the allegations against Mejbri.