Rodrigo Bentancur faces a hefty sanction if the FA confirms the charges against him following his comments about Tottenham teammate Son Heung-min
Rodrigo Bentancur could be banned for up to 12 matches if the FA's charges over comments about Son Heung-min are confirmed.
Given that he is currently serving a four-match international ban, it means he could be suspended for a total of 16 matches.
In an interview earlier this year, the Tottenham star He tried to make a joke about his South Korean teammate that went viral.
On the Uruguayan television program Por La Camiseta, the journalist asked: “Can you get me the Korean's shirt?” to which Bentancur asked “Sonny?” and the journalist said “Or some other champion's?”
Bentancur replied: “Or any of Sonny's cousins, they all look more or less alike!” to which the reporter replied “Yes, of course!”
At the time, a statement from the club read: “We have been made aware of the absolutely reprehensible online racist abuse directed at Son of Heung-Min during today's match, the club reported.
“We stand with Sonny and once again call on social media companies and authorities to take action.”
While the Uruguayan star issued a sincere apology on Instagram, he could receive a lengthy ban.
An FA statement on Thursday said: “Rodrigo Bentancur has been charged with an alleged breach of FA Rule E3 for misconduct in relation to a media interview.
“It is alleged that the Tottenham Hotspur The midfielder has breached FA rule E3.1 by acting inappropriately and/or using abusive and/or insulting words and/or bringing the game into disrepute.
“It is further alleged that this constitutes an 'aggravated breach' as defined in FA Rule E3.2 as it included a reference, either express or implied, to nationality and/or race and/or ethnic origin. Rodrigo Bentancur has until Thursday 19 September 2024 to respond to this allegation.”
It is understood that all “aggravated offences” that constitute a first offence carry a recommended sanction of between six and twelve matches.
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The Spurs midfielder will then have the opportunity to accept or reject the position.
Bentancur expressed remorse after the scandal, posting on Instagram: “I want to inform all the fans and all those who follow us that after my interview where I referred to Son Ya Nadie Más, I have spoken with him and, logically given our deep friendship, he understands that it was just an unfortunate misunderstanding. Everything has been clarified and resolved with my friend.
“If anyone was offended by my words through this medium, I would like to offer my sincerest apologies. But I would also like you to know that I never, ever, meant anything to anyone else.
“Only Son, and for that reason I have never had the intention of offending anyone, directly or indirectly. A big hug and all my respect for everyone.”
Bentancur, meanwhile, remains available for selection, meaning he could feature for Tottenham in the north London derby against Arsenal this weekend.
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