Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur is reportedly facing a seven-match ban from the Football Association (FA) following allegations of a racist remark made during an interview on Uruguayan television, according to reports in The Sun.
The FA is expected to confirm the punishment soon, delivering a significant blow to Ange Postecoglou’s squad.
In June, during an appearance on a show in his homeland, Bentancur was asked about a Tottenham player’s jersey and referenced his South Korean teammate Son Heung-min, making a remark jokingly suggesting that South Koreans look alike.
The Uruguayan midfielder later apologised publicly to Son, describing his comment as “a very bad joke.”
Son accepted the apology, describing Bentancur as a “brother” and emphasising that he held no ill feelings, noting that the midfielder was deeply remorseful and even became emotional while apologising.
Despite the apology, the FA charged the 27-year-old with an “aggravated breach” of Rule E3, citing the use of language referencing nationality or ethnicity.
If confirmed, the ban will see Bentancur miss key fixtures, including matches against Manchester City, Liverpool, and a Carabao Cup quarter-final clash with Manchester United.
His absence is a significant setback, given his consistent performances this season, featuring in 15 matches and scoring once.
Tottenham released a statement affirming their commitment to diversity and condemning discrimination of any kind.
The club also noted its support for Son and its efforts to provide further education for players to align with its inclusion objectives.
Son himself emphasised that the team has moved past the incident, focusing on their unity and shared goals for the season.
Bentancur’s comment follows previous instances of racial abuse targeting Son, highlighting persistent challenges in combating racism in football.
The FA’s anticipated ruling also includes educational components aimed at fostering understanding and preventing similar incidents in the future.
Tottenham’s leadership has reiterated its pride in the club’s diverse fanbase and players, underscoring the importance of inclusivity both on and off the pitch.
Bentancur is expected to return for Tottenham’s Boxing Day fixture against Nottingham Forest, leaving Spurs to navigate a crucial stretch of the season without him.
