Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) is investigating England midfielder Jude Bellingham for a gesture he made following his late equalizer against Slovakia in Sunday’s Euro 2024 last-16 match.
European football’s governing body announced it is examining a “potential violation” of “the basic rules of decent conduct” by Bellingham. The Real Madrid player was seen making a crotch-grabbing gesture towards the Slovakian bench after scoring an overhead kick in stoppage time.
Bellingham denied that the gesture was directed at England’s opponents, explaining on social media that it was an inside joke meant for some close friends. If found in breach of the rules, the 21-year-old could face a suspension, a fine, or both.
The relevant rule is article 11/2b, which mandates that anyone subject to UEFA regulations must respect the “principles of ethical conduct, loyalty, integrity, and sportsmanship.” Conduct that is “insulting or otherwise violates the basic rules of decent conduct” may be considered a violation.
England won the match 2-1 after extra time, setting up a quarter-final clash with Switzerland on Saturday.
Responding to the incident on social media, Bellingham said: “An inside-joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game.
“Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.”
Bellingham has made a similar gesture when playing for Real Madrid and after scoring a late equaliser for England in a friendly against Belgium in March.
After Sunday’s dramatic win, Bellingham said it was nice to give a “little bit back” as he responded to England’s critics.
“You hear people talk a lot of rubbish. It’s nice when you can deliver and give them a little bit back,” the 21-year-old added.
Cristiano Ronaldo was fined but avoided a ban for making a similar gesture while celebrating a goal for Juventus against Atletico Madrid in the second leg of a Champions League last-16 tie in 2019.
Atletico boss Diego Simeone was also fined for making the gesture during the first leg.