Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson has been handed a two-match ban by FIFA after receiving a straight red card during the Club World Cup loss to Flamengo.
The 24-year-old striker was initially set to miss one game, but FIFA’s disciplinary committee deemed the foul as serious and extended the suspension.
Jackson was sent off for a reckless studs-up challenge on Flamengo’s Ayrton Lucas during the second half of the match played on Friday, June 20.
His dismissal marked his second red card in four games across all competitions.
Chelsea went on to lose that group-stage match, but they bounced back with a 3-0 win over Esperance Sportive de Tunis in their final fixture.
Jackson missed that game and will also sit out the upcoming Round of 16 clash against Benfica.
FIFA explained its decision in an official statement on Tuesday.
According to the world football body, “The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has imposed the following sanction on Chelsea’s player Nicolas Jackson who was sent off as a result of a direct red card during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 match between his team and CR Flamengo.”
It further noted, “(A) 2-match suspension for breach under article 14 paragraph 1 e) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. This decision is final and binding and cannot be appealed.”
The extension of Jackson’s ban underscores FIFA’s increasing focus on improving player discipline during major tournaments.
Although red cards usually lead to a one-match suspension, FIFA reserves the right to extend it based on the severity of the offense.
The Chelsea striker has since apologized for the foul.
Taking to social media after the game, Jackson admitted fault and expressed regret.
His absence will be felt by Chelsea as they aim to progress deeper into the competition.
Meanwhile, all eyes will be on the striker’s return and whether this ban will influence his approach on the pitch.
