Bellingham could face FIFA action after clash with Argentina substitute
England midfielder Jude Bellingham could face disciplinary action after he appeared to slap Argentina substitute Valentin Barco following his side’s 2-1 defeat in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final.
The incident happened shortly after the final whistle as Argentina celebrated their victory. Barco, who was an unused substitute, ran onto the pitch to celebrate with his team-mates.
As Bellingham walked past, he appeared to slap Barco on the back of the head, leading to a brief confrontation between players from both teams before the Real Madrid star walked away.
The reason for Bellingham’s reaction is still unclear. However, television footage showed Barco celebrating in front of the England players after Enzo Fernandez scored Argentina’s winning goal late in the match.
Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, criticised Barco’s celebration.
“It was probably the worst example of sportsmanship we’ve seen at this World Cup,” Robinson said.
FIFA’s disciplinary committee is expected to review the incident. If Bellingham is found guilty of violent conduct, he could be suspended for England’s third-place play-off against France on Saturday in Miami.
However, FIFA may decide the incident did not involve excessive force. Under the Laws of the Game, deliberately striking an opponent on the head is not automatically a red-card offence if the contact is considered minor.
England will now wait to see whether Bellingham will be available for the bronze medal match as FIFA considers the incident.
