UEFA Delivers Verdict on Real Madrid's Appeal for Mbappe and Rudiger Suspension

UEFA's Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body has confirmed the suspended Champions League sanctions imposed on Kylian Mbappé and Antonio Rüdiger after Real Madrid's appeal was rejected.

Mbappé, Rüdiger, and Dani Ceballos faced disciplinary action for "breaching fundamental standards of proper behavior" during the penalty shootout in the Champions League round of 16 second leg against city neighbors Atlético Madrid.

The trio was found guilty of different degrees of provocative conduct during the shootout, with Rüdiger making a throat-cutting motion toward Atlético supporters and Mbappé making an inappropriate gesture.

Ceballos received the lightest penalty, being fined €20,000 ($23,496) for his actions. Mbappé was penalized €30,000 ($35,244), while Rüdiger faced a €40,000 ($46,992) fine. Both Mbappé and Rüdiger also received one-match suspensions, deferred for one year until April 4, 2026.

Due to the suspended status of these bans, both Mbappé and Rüdiger remain eligible to participate in Champions League matches, including their upcoming encounter with Arsenal. However, these penalties will be activated if either player commits further infractions before the probation period concludes.

UEFA has also confirmed sanctions related to a Nazi salute incident involving Real Madrid supporters during their Champions League clash with Arsenal on April 8. The club received a €15,000 ($17,622) fine and a one-match away fan ban, suspended for twelve months.

Real Madrid has achieved a remarkable streak of 29 consecutive Champions League qualifications dating back to 1997. Barcelona holds the second-longest run with 22 straight qualifications since 2004.

The league phase draw for the upcoming season is scheduled for August 28, which will reveal the eight opponents Real Madrid will face from the remaining 35 qualified teams between September and January.