UEFA is investigating England midfielder Jude Bellingham for a gesture he made after his late equaliser against Slovakia in the Euro 2024 last-16 match on Sunday.
European football’s governing body is looking into a “potential violation” of the “basic rules of decent conduct” by Bellingham.
Bellingham was seen making a crotch-grabbing gesture towards the Slovakian bench after scoring an overhead kick in stoppage time.
The Real Madrid player denied that the gesture was aimed at Slovakia’s team, explaining on social media that it was an inside joke directed at some close friends.
If found guilty, the 21-year-old could face a suspension, a fine, or both.
England won 2-1 after extra time, setting up a quarter-final match with Switzerland on Saturday.
The rule in question 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” could be in breach of this rule.
Responding to the incident on social media, Bellingham said, “It was an inside joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. Nothing but respect for how the Slovakia team played tonight.”
Cristiano Ronaldo was fined but avoided a ban for making a similar gesture while celebrating a goal for Juventus against Atletico Madrid in a Champions League last-16 second leg tie in 2019. Atletico boss Diego Simeone was also fined for making the gesture during the first leg.