UEFA has launched an investigation into four Real Madrid players, including Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Júnior, over allegations of “indecent conduct” during their Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid.
The match, which took place at the Metropolitano Stadium, saw Real Madrid secure a quarter-final spot after defeating Atletico 4-2 in a penalty shootout.
The teams had been tied 2-2 on aggregate following both legs of their last-16 encounter.
UEFA confirmed that an ethics and disciplinary inspector has been assigned to assess the allegations, though specific details regarding the claims have not been disclosed.
Alongside Mbappe and Vinicius, Antonio Rudiger and Dani Ceballos have also been named in the investigation.
In an official statement, UEFA noted that “further information regarding this matter will be made available in due course.”
While Rudiger, Vinicius, and Mbappe featured in the match, Ceballos remained on the bench. Footage circulating online appeared to show Mbappe making an obscene gesture while celebrating Madrid’s penalty shootout victory.
🚨 UEFA announce they have opened an investigation into celebrations of Rüdiger, Ceballos, Mbappé and Vinicius Jr after the Real Madrid vs Atlético game at the Metropolitano. pic.twitter.com/Ni4D54i71P
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 27, 2025
Should disciplinary action be taken, any suspension could impact Madrid’s upcoming Champions League quarter-final fixture against Arsenal on April 8.
Rudiger played a crucial role in Madrid’s progression, converting the decisive penalty before leading his team-mates in an animated celebration on Atletico’s home turf.
This situation echoes a prior UEFA case involving Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham during last year’s European Championship. Bellingham received a suspended one-match ban and a €30,000 fine after making a similar gesture following his late equaliser for England against Slovakia in the tournament’s last-16.
UEFA’s disciplinary panel found Bellingham guilty of “violating the basic rules of decent conduct,” setting a precedent that could influence the current case involving Madrid’s players.
