Franck Ribery hit with ban after attack on official in Italy

Franck Ribery TEAMtalk

Fiorentina winger Franck Ribery has escaped with just a three-match ban for shoving an assistant referee at the end of Sunday’s 2-1 defeat against Lazio.

The 36-year-old former France international was also fined 20,000 euros for what was described as “seriously disrespectful conduct” towards the match official.

It was thought Ribery could be facing a lengthy suspension following the incident, but a disciplinary committee felt his actions were not violent and he now faces the statutory ban for a red card offence.

Fiorentina were beaten 2-1 at home by Ciro Immobile’s last-minute goal in the Serie A clash.

Moments before, La Viola felt they should have been awarded a free-kick for a foul, but the referee waved play on and Ribery let his frustrations be known after the final whistle.

He was seen on camera in a heated exchange with the assistant referee, who was forcefully shoved twice as Ribery protested. He was shown a red card following the game.

Ribery earlier apologised for his actions, posting on Twitter: “I apologise to my teammates, the coach, the fans. I apologise to (assistant referee) Mr. Passieri.

“I was very upset and sad after the end of the match. I hope he can understand my state of mind.”