Lyon manager Paulo Fonseca has been handed a nine-month suspension following his confrontation with referee Benoit Millot during a Ligue 1 fixture.
Softfootball understands that the French Football Professional League’s disciplinary committee imposed the lengthy sanction following an investigation into the incident, which occurred during a heated moment late in the match.
Fonseca was accused of behaving in an intimidating manner towards the referee after disagreeing with an on-field decision.
The Portuguese tactician was shown a red card for his actions before approaching the match official, an incident that quickly drew criticism from football authorities and pundits across France.
Following the ruling, Paulo Fonseca is expected to remain away from the touchline for the duration of the suspension, dealing a significant setback to Lyon as they continue their domestic campaign.
The lengthy ban also serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting match officials, with football authorities determined to discourage similar incidents across the game.
Lyon are yet to confirm whether they will appeal the punishment while preparations continue for their upcoming fixtures.
