Jude Bellingham likely to escape ban over goal celebration

England star Jude Bellingham may avoid a ban for his controversial goal celebration, potentially facing only a fine, due to footage from an El Clasico match. The FA will argue that Bellingham's gesture was not directed at the Slovakian team, and the Slovakian team is not seeking charges. Fans and pundits, including ex-Arsenal hero Paul Merson, support Bellingham's case.

Zor

July 5, 2024

Jude Bellingham Likely To Escape Ban Over Goal Celebration — Bradley Collyer - PA Images / Getty Images

England star Jude Bellingham could avoid a ban for his controversial goal celebration, potentially facing only a fine thanks to footage from an El Clasico match. The FA will argue that Bellingham performed a similar gesture after scoring in Real Madrid’s 3-2 victory over Barcelona in April, demonstrating that Sunday’s celebration was not directed at the Slovakian team.

Bellingham, who scored a 95th-minute equalizer against Slovakia, insists the gesture was a private joke with friends. The Slovakian team is not seeking charges, leading German newspaper Bild to suggest Bellingham will likely receive a five-figure fine, allowing him to continue in the tournament. Fans and pundits, including ex-Arsenal hero Paul Merson, support Bellingham, with Merson stating, “It was just a release – I don’t see much wrong with it myself.”

Bellingham’s case mirrors previous incidents, such as Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone’s £17,000 fine in 2019 for a similar gesture, and Cristiano Ronaldo’s subsequent €20,000 fine for mimicking it. England will face Switzerland in the quarter-final in Dusseldorf tomorrow, with Bellingham expected to play.