Fines and suspended bans for repeat offenses

UEFA announced on Monday that it had rejected the appeal filed by Real Madrid seeking to overturn the disciplinary actions against Antonio Rüdiger, Kylian Mbappé, and Dani Ceballos for “improper conduct” after the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 match against Atlético de Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium.

The initial sanctions, issued on April 4 by UEFA’s Disciplinary Committee, included a €40,000 fine for Rüdiger and €30,000 for Mbappé, as well as a one-match suspension for both, applicable only in case of repeat offenses. Ceballos was fined €20,000, while Vinícius Júnior, who was also under investigation, was not penalized.

UEFA appointed an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector to investigate the allegations after Real Madrid players celebrated qualification in front of their away supporters, where some gestures were deemed inappropriate by the governing body.

Celebration under scrutiny after dramatic penalty win

The controversy stems from the post-match celebrations after Rüdiger scored the decisive penalty. Several players, including some not on the matchday squad such as Ceballos, joined the celebration near the north stand of the stadium, dodging objects thrown from the home crowd.

UEFA concluded that several Real Madrid players displayed unsportsmanlike behavior during those moments, which led to the fines and disciplinary warnings now upheld.

In addition, UEFA confirmed a separate €15,000 fine for Real Madrid after a supporter was seen making a Nazi salute in the stands of the Emirates Stadium during the quarterfinal match against Arsenal.

The governing body warned that any recurrence of racist behavior by Real Madrid fans could result in a ban on away ticket sales for future UEFA competitions.

The decision keeps Real Madrid under close watch, as further misconduct could lead to more severe sanctions during upcoming European tournaments.