Uefa make decision on Igor Pajač after investigation launched over Elliot Anderson incident

UEFA Hands Referee Igor Pajač Fine After Probe Into Elliot Anderson Red Card IncidentUEFA has concluded its review of referee Igor Pajač’s performance during SC Braga’s 1-0 Europa League victory over Nottingham Forest on January 22, 2026, issuing the Croatian official a €5,000 fine for allowing emotions to influence his decision-making in the controversial Elliot Anderson dismissal.

The incident occurred in stoppage time at Estádio Municipal de Braga. Substitute Anderson, frustrated after a missed penalty by Morgan Gibbs-White and Ryan Yates’ own goal, approached Pajač gesturing and speaking heatedly. The referee immediately showed a straight red card for what was deemed offensive language. However, post-match footage and audio analysis prompted UEFA to launch a formal investigation into whether Pajač overreacted under pressure from the hostile atmosphere and Forest’s mounting frustrations.

UEFA’s disciplinary panel determined that while Anderson’s behavior warranted a caution at minimum, Pajač failed to maintain full composure, escalating the situation unnecessarily instead of de-escalating. “Referees must uphold the highest standards of control, even in tense moments,” a UEFA statement read. “Emotional responses cannot override protocol.” The fine serves as a reminder without suspending Pajač, who remains eligible for upcoming assignments.

Nottingham Forest expressed disappointment but welcomed the acknowledgment of referee error. Manager Sean Dyche called it “a step toward fairness,” while Anderson—already serving a one-match ban—faces no further punishment from UEFA. Social media backlash against Pajač was intense, with fans labeling the red card “soft” and questioning consistency in dissent calls.

The decision underscores UEFA’s zero-tolerance stance on referee conduct while protecting officials from undue abuse. Pajač, an experienced referee with prior high-profile games, is expected to reflect and return stronger. Forest’s Europa League hopes took a hit from the defeat, but this resolution may ease some lingering tensions.