Bellingham can get suspended from Euro 2024 quarterfinals for rude gesture

In the fifth minute of injury time in the second half, Bellingham scored a beauty from a bicycle kick to equalize 1-1 for England against Slovakia. The 21-year-old midfielder ran to the technical area and shouted: “Who else?”

Bellingham then shared the joy with his teammates, opening his arms wide to celebrate in the familiar style, along with striker Harry Kane. After that, the star midfielder turned towards Slovakia’s technical area, put his hand on his mouth and shook it in front of his crotch. This moment happened quickly but was still caught by the cameras.

After that, Bellingham shared the video on X and clarified his action: “An inside joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.”

But on July 1, UEFA announced that it would “investigate Bellingham’s possible violation of rules of conduct.”

The rule requires players to respect “the principles of ethical conduct, loyalty, integrity and sportsmanship.” Anyone who “offends or violates the basic rules of decent conduct” may be in violation.

According to BBC Sportsif found guilty of violation, Bellingham could be fined, or receive a ban, or both. The 21-year-old midfielder may be suspended for England’s match against Switzerland in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals on July 6.

Cristiano Ronaldo was once fined for making the similar gesture, but was not suspended in Champions League 2019.

Experts in Germany also criticized Bellingham for making arrogant gestures. Christoph Kramer, a player from Borussia Monchengladbach, who has faced Bellingham many times in the Bundesliga, told FROM DF: “Bellingham must be careful not to become cocky at such a young age.”

Former defender Per Mertesacker said: “Bellingham has provoked opponents many times on the pitch,” while Kramer added: “I hope Bellingham will reflect on that a bit during the summer break.”

The English Football Association (FA) was also accused by UEFA of fan-related issues after the match with Slovakia. UEFA is investigating “lack of order or discipline among the fans” and “the setting of flares.”