UEFA suspends Morata and Rodri for one game

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By Martin Graham | 8th Aug 2024
Spain’s national team captain Alvaro Morata and midfielder Rodri have been handed a one-match suspension by UEFA following controversial chants made during their Euro 2024 victory celebrations. The disciplinary action comes after the Gibraltar Football Association (GFA) filed an official complaint against the conduct of the Spanish players.

The incident occurred on 15 July in Madrid’s Cibeles Square, where the Spanish team celebrated their 2-1 victory over England in the Euro 2024 final. During the celebrations, Rodri was seen chanting “Gibraltar is Spanish,” and Morata later encouraged the crowd to join in the chant.

UEFA’s disciplinary action
UEFA has charged Morata and Rodri for breaching the general principles of conduct, violating the basic rules of decent behavior, and using a sporting event for non-sporting manifestations. The governing body emphasized that such actions bring the sport and UEFA into disrepute. Consequently, both players are suspended from Spain’s upcoming match against Serbia on 5 September.

Gibraltar, a British territory located at the southern tip of Spain since the 18th century, has been a point of contention with Spain advocating for its return. The GFA condemned the Spanish players’ actions, describing the celebrations as “extremely provocative and insulting.”

Gibraltar FA’s reaction
The Gibraltar FA has been a full UEFA member since 2013. In their complaint, the GFA stressed that such behavior has no place in football. The association highlighted the importance of maintaining respect and sportsmanship in the sport, especially during international events.

Manchester City’s Rodri and AC Milan’s Morata’s conduct has sparked a significant response from both UEFA and the GFA, emphasizing the need for athletes to uphold the values of decency and respect in their celebrations and public expressions.

Martin Graham is an MFF sports writer