Alvaro Morata and Rodri have been given bans by UEFA after the Spanish players made fun of Gibraltar after winning Euro 2024.
Spain became the first country to win the European Championship for the fourth time last month when they defeated England 2-1 in the final of Euro 2024.
Manchester City midfielder Rodri and former Atletico Madrid striker Morata played crucial roles in Spain’s journey to the championship.
The following day, during the public festivities in Madrid, the couple was once again in the spotlight—but not for good reasons.
When the players returned to Spain, a stage was erected in the heart of Madrid to receive thousands of cheering Spanish fans.
As the captain of the team, Morata guided the presentation, but when he and Rodri took the mic to yell for Gibraltar, things became contentious.
Situated in the southernmost point of the Spanish mainland, the British Overseas Territory has been governed by the British since the 18th century.
The two players chanted: “Gibraltar is Spanish,” referencing Spain’s long-held territorial claim.
The “deeply offensive” shouts infuriated the Gibraltar FA, who filed a formal complaint with UEFA in response.
They released a statement that read: “This is a totally unnecessary mixing of sporting success with discriminatory political statements that are hugely offensive to Gibraltarians.”
Also Read: Who Is Alvaro Morata’s Wife? See Pictures
Each player was given a one-match suspension after UEFA filed charges against them for:
- Violating the basic rules of decent conduct
- Using sporting events for manifestations of a non-sporting nature
- Bringing the sport of football & UEFA into disrepute.
Luckily for Man City and AC Milan, only international football is affected by the sanctions. This implies that both will be unable to attend Spain’s first Nations League match on September 5 against Serbia.
