Incident Overview
UEFA is investigating England midfielder Jude Bellingham for a gesture he made after scoring a late equaliser against Slovakia in the Euro 2024 last-16 match. Bellingham was seen making a crotch-grabbing gesture towards the Slovakian bench following his overhead kick in stoppage time.
Denial and Explanation
Bellingham, who plays for Real Madrid, denied that the gesture was aimed at England’s opponents. He clarified on social media that it was an inside-joke directed towards some close friends who were present at the game. Despite this explanation, UEFA is pursuing the investigation into a potential violation of their ethical conduct rules.
Potential Consequences
If found guilty, the 21-year-old midfielder could face a suspension, a fine, or both. UEFA’s Article 11 2b requires all individuals subject to their regulations to uphold principles of ethical conduct, loyalty, integrity, and sportsmanship. Conduct deemed insulting or violating basic rules of decent conduct could lead to sanctions.
Precedent and Comparison
In the past, similar gestures have resulted in fines rather than bans. Cristiano Ronaldo, for instance, was fined for a comparable gesture while celebrating a goal for Juventus against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League in 2019. Atletico’s manager Diego Simeone also faced fines for a similar action during the same tie.
England Advances, Focus Turns to Quarterfinal
Despite the controversy, England won the match 2-1 after extra time, setting up a quarter-final clash with Switzerland on Saturday. The investigation into Bellingham’s gesture adds an additional layer of scrutiny as England continues their Euro 2024 campaign.
[…] UEFA Investigates Jude Bellingham’s Gesture Following Euro 2024 Goal […]