Barnet Manager Dean Brennan Handed Nine Match Ban Over Sexist Remarks to Referee

Barnet manager Dean Brennan has been suspended for nine matches after the Football Association found him guilty of making sexist comments towards referee Kirsty Dowle during a League Two fixture earlier this season. The ruling follows an independent regulatory commission hearing into the incident, which took place during Barnet’s defeat to Shrewsbury in September.

The FA confirmed that Brennan was charged in December with an aggravated breach of rule E3.1, which relates to abusive, insulting or improper conduct. The charge included an allegation that the comments directed at Dowle were discriminatory in nature. Brennan denied the accusation, but the commission concluded that the offence had been proven.

As part of the sanction, Brennan will serve a nine match touchline ban, meaning he will be prohibited from being present in the technical area during matches. In addition, he has been fined £2,000 and ordered to undertake a mandatory education programme. The FA said the measures reflect the seriousness of the breach and the importance of upholding standards of respect within the game.

Kirsty Dowle is one of a growing number of female referees officiating in the English professional leagues. Her appointments in League Two fixtures are seen as part of broader efforts by football authorities to promote diversity and inclusion at all levels of the sport. Incidents involving discriminatory language towards match officials are treated with particular gravity under current FA regulations.

The case highlights the governing body’s ongoing focus on tackling abusive behaviour from players, managers and supporters. In recent years, the FA has strengthened its disciplinary framework to address discrimination, with increased penalties and educational requirements aimed at changing behaviour across the sport.

Barnet have not issued detailed public comment on the ruling but are expected to manage first team duties accordingly during Brennan’s suspension. The ban will cover domestic fixtures under FA jurisdiction and could have a significant impact on the club’s campaign depending on its timing within the season.

The FA has reiterated that respect for match officials is fundamental to the integrity of the game. Disciplinary panels consider both the nature of the language used and the wider context when determining sanctions. Aggravated breaches involving discriminatory elements typically result in enhanced penalties compared with standard misconduct charges.

The outcome serves as a reminder that comments made during the heat of competition can carry serious consequences. Football authorities continue to stress that creating a professional and inclusive environment for officials and participants remains a central priority.