Keith Hackett, the former FIFA referee and ex-PG MOL chief, speaking to Football Insider about Tottenham midfielder James Maddison, has raised some serious concerns.
Hackett was asked whether the post could breach FA rules on questioning a referee’s integrity.
“This post will be reviewed by the FA Disciplinary Department, which will determine if it brings into question the integrity of the referee.
If they decide that it does, he will be written to and asked for his observations, which then may result in a charge, and if found guilty, may result in a fine or suspension.
In my opinion, it does question the match official’s integrity, and he should be charged, but watch this space.”
The remark refers to an Instagram post Maddison made after Tottenham’s recent 1-1 draw with Leeds United (around mid-May 2026).
In the post, Maddison appeared to criticise match officials for failing to award a late penalty (when he went down in the box) and suggested referees might be hesitant to make big calls due to VAR pressure.
Hackett added his personal view that it does question the official’s integrity and that Maddison should be charged, but noted to “watch this space” for the outcome.
The FA takes public comments that imply bias or question referees’ integrity seriously, as in recent cases like Rodri. Tottenham fans have been vocal about penalty decisions this season, especially in a tight relegation battle context.
Hackett reportedly reviewed the specific incident and supported the on-field decision, which was no penalty.