Jude Bellingham Receives Fine and Suspended Ban from UEFA for Inappropriate Celebration

UEFA has penalized Jude Bellingham for an inappropriate gesture made during England's match against Slovakia, issuing a fine and a suspended ban.

The investigation began after Bellingham, the England midfielder, celebrated his overhead kick goal in the last-16 game on Sunday with a controversial gesture. The Real Madrid player was seen running towards the England supporters, shouting “Who else?!” He then kissed his hand and grabbed his crotch, a move that seemed aimed at the sidelines.

Accusations arose that Bellingham’s actions were disrespectful towards the Slovakian team or their fans. Bellingham took to social media to clarify, stating the gesture was an inside joke directed at friends who were present at the match and expressing his respect for the Slovakian team’s performance.

Following a review by UEFA’s ethics and disciplinary committee, Bellingham has been fined €30,000. He also received a one-match suspension for violating conduct rules, which is suspended for a year and will only be enforced if there are further offenses.

This decision means Bellingham will be eligible to play in England's upcoming quarter-final against Switzerland on Saturday.

The potential penalties could have been much steeper, with fines up to €100,000 and a multi-match suspension.

Additionally, England’s Football Association has been fined €10,000 for crowd disturbances and an extra €1,000 for fireworks used during the game against Slovakia.