Leeds manager Daniel Farke accepts 1-match ban for confronting referee
Leeds' head coach Daniel Farke walks off the pitch after the Premier League soccer match between Leeds United and Manchester City in Leeds, England, Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026. Credit: AP/Ian Hodgson
LONDON — Leeds manager Daniel Farke has been given a one-match ban for jogging toward the referee to complain moments after a 1-0 loss to Manchester City last weekend in the Premier League.
Farke, who was shown a red card by match official Peter Bankes, can't be on the touchline for Sunday's FA Cup fifth-round game against Norwich at Elland Road.
On Friday, the German accepted the Football Association's sanction, which includes a fine of 8,000 pounds ($10,600), rather than risk a two-match suspension.
Farke had defended his actions after the loss to City, saying he wanted to ask why more time wasn't added.
“I'm not light like a butterfly. I don't look unbelievably cute and sweet when I jog," he said. "I will never ever jog on the pitch again.
“There was not one bad word. I didn't abuse him at all. I didn't swear at him at all. As soon as I arrived, he had the red card in his hand.”
Leeds lost 1-0 to Sunderland at home Tuesday and is just three points above the relegation zone. Its next Premier League game is March 15 at Crystal Palace.
Leeds' head coach Daniel Farke and Ethan Ampadu walk off the pitch after the Premier League soccer match between Leeds United and Manchester City in Leeds, England, Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026. Credit: AP/Ian Hodgson
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