PL issues statement on Why Tottenham’s Rodrigo Bentancur Wasn’t Sent Off For ‘Terrible Challenge’ vs Chelsea
Tottenham Hotspur’s clash with Chelsea in the Premier League this weekend was filled with tension, controversy, and heated moments — none more so than Rodrigo Bentancur’s reckless first-half challenge on Chelsea captain Reece James. While the Uruguayan midfielder escaped with only a yellow card, many onlookers — including Chelsea players, fans, and pundits — were left stunned that the punishment wasn’t harsher.
The match began in chaotic fashion as Tottenham’s defensive frailties once again came to light. A series of poor clearances and defensive mix-ups allowed Moises Caicedo to seize control in midfield. The Ecuadorian drove forward with purpose, shrugging off challenges before finding Joao Pedro in space. The Chelsea forward made no mistake, tapping home from close range to give the visitors a 1-0 lead.
However, that early goal wasn’t the only talking point of a dramatic first half at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Just before the interval, Bentancur found himself at the center of controversy after a clumsy and dangerous tackle on James near the touchline. The Tottenham midfielder lunged in late, catching the Chelsea skipper on the ankle with his studs showing — a challenge that immediately drew angry reactions from the Chelsea bench and players on the pitch.
Referee Jarred Gillett was quick to brandish a yellow card, but many expected him to go straight for red given the nature of the tackle. The decision prompted immediate protests from the Chelsea players, with James left grimacing on the turf. VAR reviewed the incident, but after a brief check, the on-field decision stood.
Football journalist Simon Johnson was among those watching closely and couldn’t hide his surprise. Posting on social media, he wrote: “Bentancur could be in trouble here… terrible challenge on James. #CFC players are incensed. Only a yellow shown by Jarred Gillett so far.” His comments echoed the general mood among fans and pundits, who were bewildered that VAR chose not to intervene.
The Premier League later released an official statement explaining the rationale behind the decision. “The referee’s call of a yellow card to Bentancur was checked and confirmed by VAR,” the statement read. “The contact was deemed to be a reckless challenge and not serious foul play.” In other words, officials concluded that while Bentancur’s tackle was poorly timed and dangerous, it did not meet the threshold for violent conduct or excessive force that would merit a red card.
Still, the explanation did little to calm the growing frustration among Chelsea supporters. Many felt that the distinction between “reckless” and “serious foul play” was far too fine and that such tackles risk serious injury. Reece James himself was visibly upset, shaking his head in disbelief as play resumed. Journalist Simon Johnson later added that James appeared “disgusted” by the lack of stronger punishment.
Social media was soon flooded with reactions, with former referees and analysts weighing in. Some argued that Bentancur was fortunate because his foot made glancing rather than full contact, while others suggested that intent shouldn’t matter when the studs are raised and contact is made above the ankle. For many, the inconsistency in VAR’s interpretation of dangerous tackles across the Premier League remains a major issue.
For Tottenham, Bentancur’s escape was a relief. Losing the influential midfielder before half-time could have been disastrous for Ange Postecoglou’s side, who were already trailing and struggling to gain control of midfield. Bentancur managed to play on without further incident, though the home fans collectively exhaled when VAR confirmed the yellow card would stand.
From Chelsea’s perspective, however, it was yet another example of officiating that seemed to go against them. With James just returning from injury, the sight of their captain on the ground clutching his ankle brought back unwelcome memories of past fitness struggles.
Regardless of the official justification, few could deny that Bentancur was extremely fortunate to remain on the pitch. The tackle could easily have been interpreted as endangering an opponent, which under current laws of the game, constitutes a red-card offence. Had Gillett shown a red instead of yellow, it’s highly unlikely VAR would have overturned it.
In the end, the incident overshadowed what should have been a high-quality London derby. The controversy once again highlighted the growing debate around VAR’s consistency and the line between reckless and dangerous play. For Tottenham, the focus will be on tightening up defensively and cutting out unnecessary risks, while Chelsea will feel aggrieved that a potentially game-changing decision went against them.
One thing is clear: Rodrigo Bentancur will count himself very lucky that his challenge on Reece James was judged as reckless rather than violent. It may have spared Tottenham from finishing the game with ten men — but it has left fans, pundits, and players alike questioning the judgment of Premier League refereeing once again.