OFFICIAL: Bentancur handed 7-match suspension for comments on Heung-Min Son

Following reports last week claiming that Rodrigo Bentancur was set for a lengthy ban for his derogatory comments on Tottenham teammate Heung-Min Son, the FA have released a statement on Monday confirming his suspension as well as a fine. 

"An independent Regulatory Commission has imposed a seven-match suspension and £100,000 fine on Rodrigo Bentancur for a breach of FA Rule E3 in relation to a media interview," began the statement from the FA.

The incident dates back to the summer when the 27-year-old  joked that all South Koreans "look the same". Although, Bentancur immediately apologised for his insensitive comment, the FA have found that "he acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words and/or brought the game into disrepute."

"It was further alleged that this constitutes an “aggravated breach”, which is defined in FA Rule E3.2, as it included a reference – whether express or implied – to nationality and/or race and/or ethnic origin," the FA added. The Uruguayan denied the charges, but "the independent Regulatory Commission found it to be proven and imposed his sanctions following a hearing."

As a result, Postecoglou will be without Bentancur for the crunch against Manchester City on Sunday, and will be sitting out other important Premier League and League Cup clashes for Spurs up until the end of December, with the likes of Man United, Liverpool and Chelsea among the list of scheduled fixtures.

 

November 18, 2024