The UEFA match minutes after England's match against Slovakia did not record the allegedly vulgar action that Jude Bellingham displayed on June 30.
However, the Guardian and Sky Sports reported on the evening of July 1 that Bellingham is facing an investigation from the European Football Federation after his indecent behavior during England's 2-1 win over Slovakia in the round of 16 of EURO 2024.
“An ethics and disciplinary inspector will conduct a disciplinary investigation into a possible breach of the fundamental rules of conduct by Jude Bellingham, which is alleged to have occurred during the England v Slovakia match,” the Guardian quoted UEFA as saying.
AS previously reported that Bellingham could be included in the EURO 2024 quarter-final against Switzerland, at least for now. That's because the report submitted to UEFA after England's 2-1 win over Slovakia did not reflect anything about the 21-year-old midfielder's actions after scoring the equalizer in the 90+5 minute.
In addition to the goal that brought England back from the abyss, Bellingham attracted attention for his vulgar celebration. This player touched his genitals while celebrating, an action that was considered aimed at the players on the Slovakian bench.
However, Bellingham quickly denied any intention to insult his opponents. He shared on social media: “A joking gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. I have nothing but respect for all the Slovakian players.”
UEFA has been monitoring players' attitudes and actions on the pitch for some time now. Anyone who makes inappropriate statements or gestures, or who is provocative or racist, will be punished.
Albania striker Mirlind Daku has been banned for two matches after his excessive celebration during Albania's 2-2 draw with Croatia on June 19. After the match ended, Daku held a megaphone to celebrate with fans and used provocative and discriminatory words.
The Rubin Kazan player apologised but that was not enough to stop UEFA's control, ethics and disciplinary body from imposing punishment.