Manager Accepts FA Charge Following Comments on Ward-Prowse Red Card Decision

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl has been fined £20,000 by the Football Association after admitting to improper conduct regarding comments made post-match about a VAR decision. The remarks followed Southampton’s 3-1 Premier League defeat to Chelsea, during which James Ward-Prowse was sent off in the 77th minute.

The FA stated: “Ralph Hasenhuttl breached Rule E3 by questioning the integrity of the VAR Match Official, implying bias, and bringing the game into disrepute during his post-match interview.” Ward-Prowse’s yellow card for a tackle on Jorginho was escalated to a straight red after referee Martin Atkinson reviewed the incident via the pitchside monitor.

The fine reflects the governing body’s firm stance on maintaining respect for match officials and the VAR system, underscoring its commitment to upholding the integrity of the game.