Referee observer Brian Curson suspended and fined after comments at Luton v Rotherham

Brian Curson, a Pro Ref referee observer, has been suspended for nine weeks and fined £200 after making discriminatory remarks following the League One match between Luton Town and Rotherham United at Kenilworth Road on 15 November 2025. The Football Association imposed the sanction following an investigation into comments alleged to have been made after the game.

Curson had attended Kenilworth Road to assess the officials at the League One fixture between Luton Town and Rotherham United on 15 November 2025, and an allegation was made that he made two discriminatory comments in the lounge at Luton's stadium after the match. He was charged with acting in an improper manner and/or using abusive and/or insulting words. The matter was treated as an "aggravated breach", with the comments said to include a reference — whether express or implied — to ethnic origin, race or nationality.

Curson, who has been involved in football for more than 40 years, told the commission he did not recall making the comments. The FA commission "was satisfied on the balance of probabilities" that the remarks had been made.

The FA requested a time-based sanction because of Curson's role in the sport, citing that a player would serve a suspension of between nine and 12 matches as the equivalent measure. The commission took into account Curson's experience and his role on the day of the match when considering the penalty.

In addition to the nine-week suspension and the £200 fine, Curson has been required to participate in education as part of the outcome. He has also received a formal warning as to his future conduct.