UEFA rejects Real Madrid's appeal, fines Mbappe, Rudiger, Ceballos €90,000

UEFA has officially dismissed Real Madrid's appeal against the disciplinary sanctions imposed on Antonio Rüdiger, Kylian Mbappé, and Dani Ceballos, confirming that the original fines and warnings will stand.

The decision, announced on Monday, means that several key Real Madrid players will remain under close scrutiny for their future conduct in European competitions.

The penalties stem from Real Madrid's dramatic victory over cross-town rivals Atlético de Madrid in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16.

Following Rüdiger's decisive penalty in the shootout, Real Madrid players gathered near the away section of the Metropolitano Stadium to celebrate with their traveling supporters.

UEFA's disciplinary bodies deemed certain aspects of this celebration "improper conduct," initiating the proceedings.

The initial ruling, issued by UEFA's Disciplinary Committee in April, included a €40,000 fine for Rüdiger and a €30,000 fine for Mbappé. Both players also received a one-match suspended ban, which would be activated only if they commit a similar offense in the future.

Ceballos, despite not being part of the matchday squad, joined the on-pitch celebrations and was fined €20,000. Vinícius Jr., who was also investigated, was ultimately cleared of any wrongdoing.

UEFA's Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector concluded that the players' actions did not align with expected standards of sportsmanship, citing provocative gestures and the ensuing chaos as objects were thrown from the home stands.

In a separate but related decision, UEFA also confirmed a €15,000 fine for Real Madrid after a supporter was filmed making a Nazi salute during the club’s Champions League quarter-final first-leg match against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

UEFA issued a stern warning to the club, emphasising that any future racist behavior by supporters could lead to more severe consequences, including a ban on the sale of away tickets for UEFA competitions.

With these sanctions now firmly upheld, Real Madrid will commence the new European season under a heightened disciplinary watch. Any repeat offenses from Rüdiger or Mbappé, or further incidents involving supporter misconduct, could trigger immediate and heavier penalties, such as match suspensions for players or restrictions on fan attendance at future European fixtures.

The club will need to ensure strict adherence to UEFA's conduct guidelines both on and off the pitch to avoid further repercussions.