BREST, France (Kashmir English): Paulo Fonseca, the Lyon manager, has been awarded 9-month suspension for angrily confronting referee Benoit Millot in his side’s match against Breat on March 2.
Fonseca will remain suspended until November 30 for “intimidating” the referee.
He has been suspended from matchday duties until November 30 after an altercation with Millot during his team’s 2-1 win over Brest on March 2.
The French Professional Football League (LFP) has confirmed the ruling, barring the Portuguese coach from the bench, officials’ dressing rooms, and all match-related activities before, during, or after games.
Furthermore, he has also been restricted from entering the team dressing room, tunnel, pitch, and corridors leading to those areas until September 15.
The Lyon manager (52) was sent off after a review of a potential penalty for Brest, which was ultimately not awarded. Millot described Fonseca’s reaction as “intimidating,” stating the Lyon boss “jumped at me” and “attempted to deliver a blow, in fact. A headbutt. There seemed to be a slight contact of the nose.”
Lyon manager expresses disappointment
Lyon, on the other hand, expressed disappointment with the speed and severity of the punishment, calling it “unprecedented” and arguing Fonseca was not judged solely on his actions. The club is considering an appeal.
Fonseca had offered apology following the incident. He had only taken charge of Lyon on 31 January after departing AC Milan. His side are currently sixth in Ligue 1.
The incident comes amid rising tensions between club officials and referees in France.
Last week, the French referees’ union warned of potential match withdrawals if officials or their families face threats, following Marseille president Pablo Longoria’s remarks on officiating.
Longoria is facing a 15-match ban after he called a referee’s decision in Marseille’s 3-0 loss to Auxerre “true corruption.”
