Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has been officially handed a two-match suspension following his red card during the 1-1 draw against Osasuna on February 15, 2025. The Spanish Football Federation's disciplinary committee imposed the ban after determining that Bellingham's actions constituted "disrespectful or inconsiderate attitudes" toward referee José Luis Munuera Montero. CADENASER.COM
The incident occurred in the 40th minute when Bellingham was sent off for allegedly directing offensive language toward the referee. According to the match report, Bellingham said "f*** you" to Munuera Montero. Both Bellingham and Real Madrid contested this account, asserting that he actually said "f*** off," a phrase they argued was not intended as an insult. To support their appeal, the club referenced a 2018 interview with former Real Madrid player Cristiano Ronaldo, who discussed cultural differences in the interpretation of such expressions between England and Spain. TALKSPORT.COM
Despite these arguments, the disciplinary committee upheld the two-match suspension, stating that the evidence provided was insufficient to overturn the referee's report. As a result, Bellingham will miss the upcoming La Liga matches against Girona on February 23 and Real Betis on March 2. Real Madrid has announced its intention to appeal the decision. REUTERS.COM
In the aftermath of the incident, referee José Luis Munuera Montero has faced significant backlash, including threats and harassment directed at him and his family. He expressed distress over the situation, highlighting the broader issue of abuse toward referees and calling for change and protection within the sport. THEGUARDIAN.COM