Jude Bellingham at risk of Euro 2024 punishment over Slovakia celebration
- England staged dramatic comeback in Euro 2024 last 16 tie with Slovakia
- Jude Bellingham scored 95th-minute overhead kick to equalise for Three Lions
- Lewd celebration now being investigated by UEFA
By Sean Walsh
UEFA have opened an investigation into Jude Bellingham's conduct during England's 2-1 win against Slovakia on Sunday.
The Three Lions advanced to the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 by the skin of their teeth. Having trailed for much of the game, Bellingham produced a stunning overhead kick in the 95th minute to send the last 16 tie to extra-time. A goal from Harry Kane just after play restarted saw them through to the next round.
Bellingham was lauded as England's hero, but came in for criticism on social media when a video emerged of him making a lewd gesture allegedly in the direction of the Slovakia bench.
UEFA have now confirmed Bellingham could yet face further action, with a statement reading: "A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector will conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding a potential violation of the basic rules of decent conduct by the English Football Association player, Jude Bellingham, having allegedly occurred in the scope of this match."
Though the celebration has led to an investigation, it remains unlikely that a ban will be imposed upon Bellingham.
The 21-year-old protested his innocence on social media after the game, insisting the celebration was merely an 'inside joke'.
🥱❌- An inside joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.🤝🏽 https://t.co/H8sETMkPoi
— Jude Bellingham (@BellinghamJude) June 30, 2024
England also have been punished for crowd trouble during the match in Gelsenkirchen.
A UEFA spokesperson added: "Following the review of the officials reports for ENG-SVK match, disciplinary proceedings have been opened against the English Football Association for lighting of fireworks and crowd disturbances. The CEDB will take a decision on this case in due course. No further proceedings were opened from this match."
Meanwhile, Declan Rice has avoided a charge after he got into a scuffle with Slovakia manager Francesco Calzona after the final whistle. Calzona himself admitted Rice later apologised for the incident and they drew a line under it.
England's late triumph against Slovakia has set up a quarter-final encounter with Switzerland in Dusseldorf on Saturday evening.
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