England footballer Jude Bellingham has been hit with a $32,400 fine by UEFA for “breaching the basic rules of decent conduct”.
UEFA confirm Bellingham has been handed one-game ban for his balls gesture.
The 21-year-old scored a memorable overhead kick for England in the 95th minute against Slovakia, securing a crucial victory for his national team.
However, his celebration following the goal landed him in hot water, with UEFA launching an investigation into an inappropriate gesture he made.
ALSO READ: Teenager Camron Mpofu joins Manchester United’s Youth Academy
Bellingham was seen gesturing with his hands in the position of his joystick in a term described as crotch-grabbing.
Despite contesting the decision, Bellingham was found guilty of the charge and subsequently fined a significant sum of money.
Alongside the fine, he was also handed a suspended one-match ban, which can be enforced at any point during the forthcoming year.
This means that he will be available to represent his country in the upcoming game against Switzerland.
The punishment has sparked fierce debate amongst fans and commentators alike, with some arguing that the fine is justified, while others have criticised the severity of the penalty.
Many have also questioned the consistency of UEFA’s disciplinary procedures, pointing out that other players have received much more lenient punishments for similar offences in the past.
Despite the controversy surrounding the verdict, Bellingham has taken responsibility for his actions and apologised for any offence caused.
He has also pledged to continue working hard both on and off the pitch to improve his behaviour and set a positive example for young fans.
