Reason behind Michael Stewart’s absence from Celtic F.C. vs St Mirren F.C. punditry revealed

Michael Stewart has been barred from carrying out punditry duties at Hampden Park following a decision by Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell.

The move is understood to stem from Stewart’s previous criticism of referees in Scottish football. The former player has been involved in controversy before, including an incident where he later apologised after suggesting officials had attempted to “cover up” a VAR decision during a match involving St Mirren F.C. and Hibernian F.C..

Reacting to the ban, Stewart claimed the Scottish FA were attempting to silence dissenting voices, arguing that open discussion should be encouraged rather than restricted. He maintained that while opinions may divide fans, pundits should not be denied access to venues for expressing their views.

As a result of the decision, Stewart will not be part of the broadcast team for Celtic F.C.’s Scottish Cup semi-final clash with St Mirren F.C. this weekend, despite regularly featuring on coverage by Premier Sports.

Reports suggest that match officials raised concerns through the Scottish Senior Football Referees’ Association, prompting action from both the SFA and broadcasters. The ban had reportedly already been put in place ahead of Scotland’s recent friendly against Japan national football team, with Stewart and his employers informed at the same time.

While it is not unusual for individual clubs to restrict certain pundits — as seen with Chris Sutton at Rangers F.C. and Kris Boyd at Dundee F.C. — a ban at Scotland’s national stadium is considered a more significant step.

Stewart, who began his career at Manchester United F.C. under Alex Ferguson, is best known for his spells with Hibernian F.C. and Heart of Midlothian F.C.. In his punditry role, he has also been outspoken in his criticism of Celtic’s leadership.