December 2013–February 2014
'Quenelle' gesture: five-match suspension and £80,000 fine
After celebrating a goal with a 'quenelle' gesture, Anelka faced FA disciplinary proceedings. An independent commission found an aggravated breach involving a reference to ethnic origin, race, religion or belief and imposed a five-match suspension, a £80,000 fine and an educational requirement. The controversy also prompted Zoopla to terminate its sponsorship of West Brom.
- State of the evidence
- Documented
Sources · 2
- [1]The Football AssociationNicolas Anelka given five-match suspensionSports governing bodyVery high reliability
- [2]The GuardianZoopla ends West Brom sponsorship after Nicolas Anelka quenelle gesturePressHigh reliability
Last verified: 15 September 2026
