PGMOL Condemns Abuse and Threats Directed at Michael Oliver

Police are investigating threats and abuse directed at referee Michael Oliver after he showed a red card to Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly during Saturday's Premier League match against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has confirmed that police are investigating threats and abuse directed at referee Michael Oliver following his decision to show a red card to Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly during Saturday's match against Wolverhampton Wanderers. The 18-year-old Lewis-Skelly was sent off for tripping Matt Doherty on the edge of the Wolves box, a decision that was upheld by the VAR. Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta was left “fuming” over the decision, which marked the team's fourth red card of the season.

The Premier League strongly condemns the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver. No official should be subject to any form of abuse. We will continue to support Michael, PGMOL and all investigations. https://t.co/J6GbuH7gNT

— Premier League (@premierleague) January 26, 2025

The PGMOL has strongly condemned the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver, stating, “We are appalled by the threats and abuse directed at Michael Oliver following the Wolverhampton Wanderers v Arsenal fixture.” The organization emphasized that no official should be subjected to such treatment, saying, “No official should be subject to any form of abuse, let alone the abhorrent attacks aimed at Michael and his family over the past 24 hours.”

The PGMOL has confirmed that the police are aware of the situation and have commenced investigations. The organization is providing support to Michael Oliver and those affected by the abuse, and is determined to tackle this unacceptable behavior. “The police are aware, and a number of investigations have commenced. We are supporting Michael, and all those affected, and are determined to tackle this unacceptable behaviour,” the PGMOL stated.

The Premier League has defended the decision to show Lewis-Skelly a red card, stating that it was “checked and confirmed by VAR who deemed Lewis-Skelly's challenge to have been serious foul play.” As a result, Lewis-Skelly will be suspended for three games. However, television pundits have expressed surprise at the decision, with former Premier League referee Mike Dean suggesting that a yellow card would have been sufficient.