UEFA has launched an investigation into England midfielder Jude Bellingham following a gesture he made after scoring a late equaliser against Slovakia in Sunday’s Euro 2024 round of 16 match.
The governing body of European football stated it is examining a potential breach of conduct rules by Bellingham, described as violating “the basic rules of decent conduct.”
Bellingham was observed making a crotch-grabbing gesture towards the Slovakian bench upon scoring an overhead kick during stoppage time.
The Real Madrid player clarified on social media that the gesture was an inside joke intended for close friends present at the game, denying any hostility towards the opponents.
Should he be found guilty of breaching UEFA’s regulations, the 21-year-old could face disciplinary action, including a possible suspension or fine.
The specific rule under scrutiny is article 11/2b, which mandates respect for ethical conduct, loyalty, integrity, and sportsmanship among those subject to UEFA’s jurisdiction.
England secured a 2-1 victory in extra time, advancing to a quarter-final clash against Switzerland on Saturday.
Reacting to the incident, Bellingham expressed, “An inside-joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.”
Bellingham had previously made a similar gesture while playing for Real Madrid and after scoring a late equaliser for England in a friendly against Belgium earlier in the year.
Following England’s dramatic win, Bellingham responded to critics, stating, “You hear people talk a lot of rubbish. It’s nice when you can deliver and give them a little bit back.”
In a comparable case, Cristiano Ronaldo received a fine but avoided a ban for a similar gesture while celebrating a goal for Juventus against Atletico Madrid in the 2019 Champions League last-16 second leg. Atletico manager Diego Simeone was also fined for a similar gesture during the first leg.
Sports editor Dan Roan’s analysis highlighted the uncertain wait faced by Bellingham and England manager Gareth Southgate as UEFA assesses the incident, with the investigation potentially spanning several days.
The outcome of the investigation will determine the extent of any punishment, with past incidents suggesting that a fine is more likely than a suspension for such offenses. The interpretation of Bellingham’s explanation and the reaction of the Slovakian team will be critical factors in UEFA’s decision-making process.
