Uefa Probes Jude Bellingham for Inappropriate Gesture

European football’s governing body, Uefa, is investigating Jude Bellingham for a “potential violation” of “the basic rules of decent conduct.” The Real Madrid player made a crotch-grabbing gesture towards the Slovakian bench after scoring an overhead kick in stoppage time.

Bellingham denied that the gesture was directed at his opponents, explaining on social media that it was an inside joke aimed at close friends. If found guilty, the 21-year-old could face a suspension, a fine, or both.

The investigation revolves around Article 11 2b, which mandates respect for “principles of ethical conduct, loyalty, integrity, and sportsmanship.” Conduct deemed “insulting or otherwise violates the basic rules of decent conduct” may breach this regulation.

In response to the incident, Bellingham stated, “An inside-joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.”

A similar incident occurred in 2019 when Cristiano Ronaldo was fined but not banned for making the same gesture while celebrating a goal for Juventus against Atletico Madrid. Atletico boss Diego Simeone was also fined for a similar gesture during the first leg.