World Cup 2026: England star Jude Bellingham slaps Argentina substitute Barco
England midfielder Jude Bellingham is under scrutiny after slapping Argentina substitute Valentin Barco following a World Cup semi-final match. FIFA is investigating the incident, though it may be classified as petulant rather than violent conduct.
Why it matters
The incident raises questions about sportsmanship and disciplinary standards in high-stakes international football tournaments.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Bellingham and Barco clashed after the final whistle
Jude Bellingham slapped Argentina substitute Valentin Barco on the back of the head following England's 2-1 World Cup semi-final defeat.
Barco, who did not play in the game, came on to the pitch at full-time and was hugging team-mates near Bellingham when the England midfielder walked over and slapped him.
It sparked a small melee as players from both sides got involved before Bellingham walked away.
It is not known what prompted the reaction, but footage showed Barco running on the pitch after Enzo Fernandez's 85th-minute equaliser and celebrating in front of the England players.
Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson, commentating on the match for BBC Radio 5 Live, described Barco's actions as "probably the worst example of sportsmanship we've seen at this World Cup".
Bellingham could face action from Fifa's disciplinary committee for violent conduct.
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