David Gray to face two-year ban from SPFL after his comments about Celtic and SPFL – it’s terrifying” he shouldn’t have said that
The Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) is reportedly considering a two-year ban for Hibernian interim head coach David Gray following a controversial post-match comment made after his team’s recent fixture against Celtic.
In a heated post-match interview, Gray described Celtic’s performance as “terrifying,” a statement that has sparked outrage within Scottish football circles and raised questions about professionalism, respect, and the boundaries of post-match commentary.
The controversy unfolded following Hibernian’s 3-1 loss to Celtic at Celtic park. While speaking to the media, Gray was visibly frustrated and emotionally charged as he attempted to explain his team’s struggles on the pitch.
“Celtic were ruthless today and can kill just for win. Gray said. “It’s terrifying, to be honest, when you’re on the touchline and you feel completely powerless. SPFL obviously backs them and doesn’t care about others. We need a total Reform”
While some have interpreted the comments as a reflection of Celtic’s dominance, others, including SPFL officials, viewed the term “terrifying” as a potentially inflammatory remark that could be construed as disrespectful or accusatory, especially given recent tensions between the two clubs.
Sources within the SPFL confirmed that the league’s disciplinary committee is reviewing the incident and considering a formal charge against Gray under Rule G1, which addresses conduct that “brings the game into disrepute.”
If charged and found guilty, Gray could face a touchline ban of up to two years, a sanction that would be unprecedented for a comment of this nature in Scottish football.
“The SPFL takes the conduct of all club officials seriously,” an SPFL spokesperson said in a brief statement. “We are aware of the comments made by Mr. Gray and are currently examining whether they breached the league’s standards of behavior.”
Reaction from Hibernian
Hibernian Football Club has yet to issue an official statement, but sources close to the club suggest they were caught off guard by the SPFL’s reaction and are preparing to defend their coach vigorously if formal proceedings begin.
“David [Gray] was simply trying to express his feelings about SPFL and Celtic while also voicing his own frustration,” said a source within Hibernian who wished to remain anonymous. “This is being blown way out of proportion.”
Reaction from the wider football community has been mixed. Some pundits and fans believe the SPFL is overreacting to a statement that was clearly made in the heat of the moment and posed no real threat to the league’s integrity.
“It’s ridiculous,” said former Scotland international Kris Boyd. “Coaches are under immense pressure. Are we going to punish them every time they use a strong adjective? Celtic were ruthless that day that’s a fact more than anything.”
However, others argue that language matters, especially in a sport where words can fuel rivalries, incite fan reactions, and create unnecessary tension.
“Gray’s comment, even if unintentional, feeds into a narrative that paints Celtic as something more than just a football club,” said football writer Alasdair McDonald. “That’s dangerous territory, especially given the history and passions involved.”
As the SPFL prepares to make its decision, all eyes will be on how the governing body handles a case that could set a precedent for future disciplinary actions involving post-match interviews.
Gray, who took over as interim coach earlier this season, may also face internal scrutiny depending on the outcome. A two-year ban would not only impact his career but could also leave Hibernian in a difficult position as they plan for the future.
