UEFA confirm Jude Bellingham investigation into controversial England incident

UEFA have confirmed that an investigation into actions by Jude Bellingham following his late equaliser for England against Slovakia on Sunday has been launched. The Real Madrid midfielder appeared to make a gesture towards Slovakia fans in the aftermath of his late bicycle kick.

A statement from a UEFA spokesperson reads: "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.

"Information on this matter will be made available in due course."

Bellingham responded to allegations shortly after the match, writing on Twitter/X: "An inside joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight."

The 21-year-old, who only celebrated his birthday last week, saved England from embarrassment in their last-16 tie. His goal just 90 seconds from time took the game to extra time after the Three Lions had been heading towards an early exit.

Gareth Southgate's side had fallen behind in the first half, continuing a trend of sluggish performances during the tournament in Germany so far. Bellingham, who had struggled for much of the match, became the hero though, sending the tie into an additional 30 minutes.

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Harry Kane scored the winner shortly into extra time, sparking jubilant scenes for England. They will now face Switzerland in the quarter-finals on Saturday evening.

Southgate will be without defender Marc Guehi for that match after he picked up a yellow card that brings a suspension. Meanwhile, England could also lose Bellingham depending on the result of the UEFA investigation.

Article 57 of the FIFA disciplinary code says that, "Anyone who insults someone in any way, especially by using offensive gestures or language, or who violates the principles of fair pay or whose behaviour is unsporting in any other way may be subject to sanctions in accordance with art. 10 ff." This could go as far as a ban or a big fine.

Speaking after the game, Bellingham opened up on the emotions of the moment. “You’re 30 seconds from going home and having to listen to all the rubbish and feeling like you’ve let people down," he said.

“Playing for England should be the most proud moment of your career but often it’s quite difficult. There’s a really high intense pressure. The fans expect a lot from us regardless of what happened in recent tournaments years and years ago."