McInnes Banned for 'Disgusting' Celtic Penalty Remark

Rangers manager Derek McInnes has been handed a four-game touchline ban, with one game suspended, following comments made about a penalty awarded to Celtic. The incident occurred on March 16, 2024, when McInnes was managing Hearts and a late penalty was given to Celtic during their match against Motherwell. McInnes described the penalty decision as "disgusting" in his post-match media duties.

The Scottish Football Association (SFA) found McInnes guilty of breaching disciplinary rules regarding comments made about match officials. The ban means McInnes will be absent from the dugout for crucial upcoming fixtures. The SFA's disciplinary panel considered the nature of the comments and their potential impact on the integrity of the game. This ruling comes as a significant setback for Rangers as they navigate the remainder of the season.

The specific match in question saw Celtic secure a victory over Motherwell following the controversial penalty. McInnes's immediate reaction in the press conference led to the SFA's investigation and subsequent sanction. The suspended game means that if McInnes commits a similar offense within a specified period, the suspended portion of the ban will be activated, leading to an additional game on the sidelines.