UEFA has announced the commencement of an inquiry into the behavior of four Real Madrid players following their Champions League match against Atletico Madrid on March 12. The investigation, initiated on Thursday, centers around alleged `indecent conduct` during the second leg of the round of 16 game.
According to a statement from the governing body, a UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to examine the actions of Real Madrid players Antonio Rudiger, Kylian Mbappe, Daniel Ceballos Fernandez, and Vinicius Junior. The allegations stem from the Champions League Round of 16 game between Atlético de Madrid and Real Madrid on March 12, 2025.
While UEFA has not detailed the specific incidents under scrutiny, reports from The Athletic suggest the investigation is focused on the Real Madrid players` celebrations after the match. It is understood that the four players were dancing in view of their own supporters. However, Atletico fans, who could also see the celebrations, reportedly began throwing objects. All four players are accused of making gestures towards the Atletico supporters as they exited the field. Specifically, Rudiger is alleged to have made a throat-slitting gesture, while Ceballos and Mbappe are suspected of making inappropriate gestures towards the crowd. Vinicius is also reported to have made a hand gesture.
The potential consequences of the investigation remain unclear. However, according to the rules of the game, `offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or action(s)` or `acting in a provocative, derisory or inflammatory way` can be classified as red card offenses. If any of the players are penalized, it could affect their participation in the first leg of the quarterfinal match against Arsenal on April 8.
This news adds further intrigue to the already dramatic game in Madrid earlier this month. The match, which ultimately went to a penalty shootout, saw Real Madrid, the current Champions League titleholders, advance to the next stage. Real Madrid entered the second leg with a 2-1 advantage, but Atletico Madrid quickly leveled the score thanks to Conor Gallagher`s early goal. Vinicius had an opportunity to put Real Madrid ahead with a penalty in the second half, but his shot went over the goal, leading to extra time and subsequently, penalties.
Real Madrid ultimately won the penalty shootout 4-2, despite an incident where Alvarez`s penalty was initially ruled invalid because referees determined he made two touches on the ball. Rudiger subsequently scored the decisive penalty for Real Madrid.
