In a round-of-16 match against Slovakia during Euro 2024, English football player Jude Bellingham is being investigated by UEFA for allegedly breaching the basic rules of decent conduct. The investigation stems from a gesture where Bellingham appeared to motion towards his crotch in front of the Slovakia bench after scoring a stoppage-time equaliser.

A source close to the matter has informed ESPN that while Bellingham may face disciplinary action, it is unlikely to result in a ban. Instead, a fine is deemed the most probable outcome if he is found guilty of the alleged offence. The England international has claimed on social media that the gesture was meant as an "inside joke to friends."

Notably, previous instances involving similar gestures by Cristiano Ronaldo and Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone during the 2019 Champions League resulted in €20k fines, but no bans were imposed. It remains to be seen how UEFA will handle the current case involving Bellingham.

In response to the incident, UEFA has instructed its disciplinary body to investigate the matter further. A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector will conduct the investigation to determine if there has been a violation of the basic rules of decent conduct by Bellingham, who plays for the English Football Association.

In addition to the investigation involving Bellingham, the English FA itself has been charged by UEFA relating to supporter-related issues during the match against Slovakia. UEFA is examining allegations of a "lack of order or discipline by supporters" and the "lighting of fireworks."

The outcome of the investigation could potentially impact Bellingham's availability for the upcoming quarterfinal match against Switzerland, which is scheduled to take place in Düsseldorf on Saturday.

UEFA's statement issued on Monday addresses the disciplinary investigation surrounding Bellingham's alleged gesture, stating, "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."

As the investigation unfolds, football fans and commentators eagerly await UEFA's ruling on whether Jude Bellingham will face any further consequences for his actions during the match against Slovakia.