UEFA imposes fines on Real Madrid stars Kylian Mbappe, Antonio Rudiger after Champions League controversy
The Real Madrid vs. Atletico Madrid showdown was one of the most heated matches of the 2024–25 season, with Los Blancos advancing to the Champions League quarterfinals via a dramatic penalty shootout. Months later, UEFA has officially sanctioned Kylian Mbappe and Antonio Rudiger for their conduct during the contentious clash.
Following a 2–1 Champions League first-leg win, the return match ended 1–0 in favor of Atletico after 120 minutes of intense action. The shootout was shrouded in controversy, particularly after Julian Alvarez’s goal was disallowed for an alleged double-touch. In the aftermath, Real Madrid’s celebrations sparked criticism and disciplinary attention.
The sanctions follow Atletico Madrid’s formal complaint over gestures made by Real Madrid players after the final whistle—accusations rooted in “violating the basic rules of decent conduct,” as outlined in Article 11.2.b of UEFA’s disciplinary regulations. Mbappe, Rudiger, and Dani Ceballos were all named in the complaint and fined accordingly.
Rudiger drew scrutiny for making a movement with his finger rounding his neck in what was deemed a provocative gesture. Mbappe and Ceballos, meanwhile, were cited for taunting gestures directed toward Atlético fans during the celebrations.
Real Madrid appealed UEFA’s initial ruling in an effort to overturn the sanctions. However, UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body upheld its decision, stating: “The appeal submitted by Real Madrid C.F. is rejected. Consequently, the decision of the Committee is upheld.”
Fines and suspended bans
As a result of their actions, Antonio Rudiger, Kylian Mbappe, and Dani Ceballos have been fined €40,000, €30,000, and €20,000, respectively—with the German defender receiving the highest penalty. But financial penalties weren’t the only outcome.
Both Rudiger and Mbappe have also received one-match suspensions from UEFA competitions. However, those bans are suspended for one year and will only be enforced if either player commits another disciplinary offense during that period.