Why did the FA overturn Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red card? Ruling released

Arsenal deals & transfers January 2025

Myles Lewis-Skelly’s controversial red card against Wolverhampton Wanderers has been overturned after an FA review. But why was the decision reversed?

The FA’s Independent Regulatory Commission overturned Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red card after ruling that the dismissal was a clear and obvious error and that the challenge did not constitute serious foul play under Law 12 of the game.

Arsenal’s case

Arsenal argued that Lewis-Skelly’s challenge against Wolverhampton Wanderers on 25 January 2025 was not only wrongfully deemed serious foul play but also that the automatic three-match suspension was clearly excessive. To support their claim, the club submitted four key video clips, including:

• The original incident itself.

• Three comparative challenges in recent matches where red cards were issued but later overturned.

Arsenal’s legal team contended that while Lewis-Skelly stepped across his opponent, the action did not involve excessive force, endanger the safety of the opponent, or meet the criteria for serious foul play.

The club further emphasised that the player’s movement was not a lunge, not two-footed, and lacked the necessary speed and force to be deemed a dangerous tackle.

FA Commission’s decision

The Independent Regulatory Commission reviewed the video evidence and Arsenal’s written arguments and determined that:

1. Lewis-Skelly’s movement was more of a trip than a reckless challenge.

2. No excessive force or brutality was involved in the incident.

3. The challenge did not put the opponent in serious danger.

4. The decision to award a straight red card was an over-interpretation of the laws.

5. The three-match suspension was deemed disproportionate.

The panel unanimously agreed that the red card should be rescinded, allowing Lewis-Skelly to be available for Arsenal’s next matches.

Final Ruling & Implications

As per Fast Track 4 Regulations, the FA confirmed that there is no further right of appeal, meaning the decision is final.