Keith Hackett blasts German football authorities over what they’ve done to Jobe Bellingham
Keith Hackett has been quick to call out the German football authorities after Jobe Bellingham’s suspension was extended in the Bundesliga.
Bellingham was sent off for Borussia Dortmund on Sunday in their 1-1 draw with Freiburg.
It was a controversial decision, with the former Sunderland star taking down Philipp Treu after trying to play the ball.
Yet, the DFB sports court has now confirmed that the suspension will last two matches, something that Hackett was baffled by.
Keith Hackett: I see no real justification for extended Jobe Bellingham ban
Bellingham’s time at Borussia Dortmund so far has been disappointing so far, and this recent news will do little to help his case.
The midfielder is now set to be out of action for the German giants until the start of January.
As a result, plenty of Dortmund fans were angry about the decision regarding Bellingham, and Hackett understands their frustration.
Jobe Bellingham was sent off for the first time in a Borussia Dortmund shirt as they were held to a draw by Freiburg in the Bundesliga 🟥 pic.twitter.com/Pd3c7fII9B
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) December 15, 2025
The former referee exclusively told Football Insider: “It is evident that the authorities have viewed those challenges in slow motion and probably even created a series of stills that make the challenge look frankly worse than it is.
“Bellingham has attempted to play the ball and comes into contact with the rear of the leg of his opponent.
“Hence, the on-field referee viewing it has Serious Foul Play.
“I see no real justification from the authorities to increase the ban.
“I wonder if Bellingham, after the red card was shown, expressed a comment to the referee, hence the extra one-match ban.
“The fans of Borussia Dortmund have every right to be unhappy with the added sanction.”
Bellingham may never play for Borussia Dortmund again
As a result of the suspension, the 20-year-old will not be available again until 13 January, with the winter break taking place after the Borussia Monchengladbach match.
With Bellingham linked with a January exit from Dortmund, there is now a chance he may never play for the Bundesliga side again.
It has no doubt been a difficult few months for the youngster, with the midfielder only starting five matches in the division to date.
However, it remains to be seen if he can return to form away from Dortmund and get his career back on track.