New Rangers manager Derek McInnes is set to start the season from the stands after being handed a four-match ban for comments he made about a controversial penalty awarded to Celtic last season. The Scottish Football Association (SFA) announced the suspension on Wednesday, with one match suspended until the end of the 2026-27 season.
Background of the incident
While managing Hearts, McInnes described the VAR decision to give Celtic a stoppage-time spot-kick at Motherwell as "disgusting." The penalty, scored by Kelechi Iheanacho, secured a 3-2 win for Celtic, which proved crucial in the Scottish Premiership title race. At the time, Hearts were in contention for their first league title since 1960, but the result meant Celtic needed only a victory on the final day to clinch the championship, which they achieved.
SFA disciplinary action
McInnes was charged with breaching rule 72 of the SFA disciplinary guidelines, which prohibits criticism of match officials. Following a hearing at Hampden, the charge was proven, resulting in a four-match ban. The suspension will see McInnes barred from the touchline for Rangers' opening league match against Dundee United on Friday week, as well as home games against Hibernian and St Mirren.
Former Motherwell midfielder Elliot Watt also received a four-match suspension for calling the incident "the worst VAR decision in history" on his X account. Watt, now at Turkish club Samsunspor, was similarly charged under rule 72.
