Motherwell Football Club is contemplating legal action against the Scottish Football Association (SFA) after the club and midfielder Elliot Watt received significant sanctions related to a controversial VAR decision during a match against Celtic last season. The club was fined £5,000 and Watt received a four-match ban for public criticism of a late penalty awarded to Celtic.
The incident occurred in the penultimate match of the 2025-26 season at Fir Park, where Celtic secured a 3-2 victory. The contentious penalty was awarded for a handball against Motherwell's Sam Nicholson, a decision that sparked debate due to inconclusive replays. Motherwell's official social media channels posted content that appeared to question the judgment of referee John Beaton and VAR Andrew Dallas, including a phrase stating, "as the world of football mocks our game."
Watt, who had previously described the penalty as "the worst VAR decision in history" on his social media, and the club were charged with breaching SFA rules that prohibit criticism implying bias or incompetence of match officials. Both the club and the player admitted the charges during a disciplinary hearing convened by the SFA.
Watt's four-match ban will affect the start of Motherwell's domestic season. He was already set to miss the Premiership opener due to a red card received in a previous match. The additional ban means he will also be suspended for league games against Falkirk, Aberdeen, and St Mirren, as well as the club's Premier Sports Cup opener. If he remains with the club, his first domestic game could be as late as September 2, though he may be eligible for Conference League matches.
Motherwell expressed disappointment with the outcome of the hearing and stated they would seek external legal advice. "The club have requested the written reasons in relation to the decision, and thereafter we will liaise with our external solicitors on any next steps," the club said in a statement.
Separately, Derek McInnes, who was in charge of Hearts at the time, also faced a similar charge for his comments calling the penalty "disgusting." His hearing was postponed.
Following the match, SFA head of referees Willie Collum reviewed the penalty award on the season's final VAR Review Show, affirming the decision.