Bellingham could be excluded from the quarter-finals of the Euro 2024 because of rude gesture

In the fifth minute of second-half stoppage time, Bellingham equalised with an overhead kick to give England a 1-1 draw with Slovakia. The 21-year-old midfielder ran into the technical area shouting: “Who else?”

Bellingham then shared the joy with his teammates, spreading his arms in celebration alongside striker Harry Kane in his trademark style. The star midfielder then turned towards Slovakia’s training zone, put his hand over his mouth and shook it in front of his crotch. The moment happened quickly, but was still caught by the cameras.

Bellingham then shared the video on X and clarified his action: “An inside gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. Nothing but respect for the performance of the Slovakian team tonight.”

But on July 1, UEFA announced it would “investigate Bellingham’s possible breach of the Code of Conduct.”

Jude Bellingham (number 10) celebrates with Harry Kane in the European Championship round of 16 match between England and Slovakia on July 30, 2024. Photo by AP

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

Accordingly BBC SportsIf Bellingham is found guilty of a breach, he could be fined or banned, or both. The 21-year-old midfielder could be banned for England’s match against Switzerland in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 on July 6.

Cristiano Ronaldo was once fined for a similar gesture, but was not banned from the 2019 Champions League.

Experts in Germany also criticized Bellingham’s arrogant gestures. Christoph Kramer, a player from Borussia Mönchengladbach who has often played against Bellingham in the Bundesliga, said ZDF: “Bellingham has to be careful not to become arrogant at such a young age.”

Former defender Per Mertesacker said: “Bellingham often provoked his opponents on the pitch,” and Kramer added: “I hope Bellingham thinks about it a little during the summer break.”

The English Football Association (FA) was also accused by UEFA of fan problems after the match against Slovakia. UEFA is investigating “lack of order or discipline among fans” and “the lighting of flares”.