Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson has been handed a two-match suspension by FIFA following his straight red card in the Blues’ 3–1 defeat to Flamengo at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
The Senegalese striker was dismissed just minutes after coming on, for a studs-up challenge on Flamengo’s Ayrton Lucas in Philadelphia.
It marks Jackson’s second red card in just four appearances.
FIFA confirmed the decision via a statement:
“The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has imposed a two-match suspension on Chelsea player Nicolas Jackson, who was sent off during the Club World Cup match against CR Flamengo on 20 June 2025, under Article 14, paragraph 1(e) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. This decision is final and binding. It cannot be appealed.”
Jackson issued a public apology via Instagram:
“I want to say sorry. To the club, the staff, my teammates, and every fan, I let you down. Another red card… and honestly, I’m furious with myself. I didn’t mean to hurt anyone. It was just a split-second moment gone wrong. But I take full responsibility. No excuses. I’ll reflect, learn, and come back stronger.”
Chelsea now face a must-win match against ES Tunis on Wednesday morning. A defeat would eliminate them from the tournament.
