City of Norwich top scorer Borja Sainz The Football Association confirmed on Friday that he had been suspended for six matches after admitting to spitting on an opponent.
Sainz, who has 15 goals for Norwich in the Championship, said he takes “full responsibility” for spitting on Sunderland player Chris Mepham during a second tier match of English football on December 21.
The incident allegedly occurred in the 74th minute of the match at the Stadium of Light in Norwich lost 2-1 After Anis Ben Slimane he gave them the lead.
“Norwich City’s Borja Sainz has been suspended for six matches and fined £12,000 in relation to a breach of FA Rule E1.1 which occurred during the EFL Championship match against Sunderland on Saturday 21 December 2024.” – we read in the FA statement.
“Borja Sainz pleaded guilty to the charges and the Independent Regulatory Commission imposed sanctions on him.”
Sainz, 23, apologized for his actions, which he said he “deeply regrets.”
“Spitting at an opponent is completely inappropriate for me and my reaction at that moment was unacceptable,” Sainz said. “I deeply regret my actions and take full responsibility.
“I want to apologize directly to my opponent, Chris Mepham, for my behavior. Additionally, I apologize to my teammates, our coaching staff and our fans.
“I am deeply disappointed in myself for letting you all down with my behavior.”
Norwich are 11th in the table and Sainz’s suspension will cover a clash with Liverpool in the third round of the FA Cup First league side Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday.
He added: “While I am sorry to miss the upcoming matches, I will use this time to reflect, learn and refocus so that I can come back stronger and continue to contribute to the team for the rest of the season.”
