Jude Bellingham Likely to Avoid UEFA Punishment for Gesture
Jude Bellingham is anticipated to escape punishment from UEFA after appearing to make a lewd gesture toward the Slovakia bench following his dramatic overhead-kick equalizer for England. In the last moments of the game, Bellingham’s goal helped push the match into extra time, with Harry Kane’s subsequent goal securing a quarter-final spot against Switzerland. Despite what appeared contentious, Bellingham clarified on social media that his gesture was an inside joke directed at his close friends who attended the game, adding his utmost respect for the Slovakia team.
Given the laws of the game, any obscene gesture or offensive action should be met with a red card. However, Bellingham’s clarification and the specific context of the action are likely influencing UEFA’s decision. Their reviews suggest the incident was not malicious but a quirky moment misunderstood. The expectation is that Bellingham will face no repercussions, much like Declan Rice, who also dodges potential actions for a post-match altercation involving Slovakia manager Francesco Calzona.
In the incident, Calzona pushed Rice in the chest after approaching the referee. Rice, initially appearing to offer a handshake, reacted to the push but did not escalate the situation. Ivan Toney intervened, separating Rice, while Aaron Ramsdale arrived to calm everything down. The series of events suggests a series of misunderstandings rather than intent, shaping UEFA’s lenient stance.
