Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson has been handed a two-match suspension following his dismissal during the Blues’ Club World Cup defeat to Flamengo.
Jackson saw red in Chelsea’s 3-1 loss at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on June 20, coming on as a second-half substitute before receiving his marching orders for a reckless, studs-up challenge on Flamengo’s Ayrton Lucas.
It marked his second sending-off in just four appearances, adding further scrutiny to the forward’s future under Enzo Maresca, particularly after signing Liam Delap.
FIFA released a statement saying: “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 at Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, on 20 June 2025.
“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 ban means Jackson will miss Chelsea’s upcoming clash against ES Tunis on Wednesday morning, and any potential next match should the Blues advance.
BREAKING: Nicolas Jackson has been handed a two-match ban following his sending off against Flamengo in the Club World Cup 🟥 pic.twitter.com/6L27VCzPnK
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) June 24, 2025
A defeat in that fixture would eliminate the Premier League side from the tournament.
In the aftermath of the incident, Jackson took to social media to issue an apology.
He said: “I want to say sorry. To the club, the staff, my team-mates, and all the fans watching, I let you down.
“Another red card … and honestly, I’m so angry at myself. I work very hard every day to help the team not to put us in this kind of situation.
“I still don’t fully understand how it happened. But one thing is clear: it wasn’t intentional. Just a football moment that went the wrong way.
“No excuses. I take full responsibility. I’ll reflect, I’ll grow, and I’ll come back stronger for the badge and for everyone who believes in me. Sorry. Sorry. Sorry.”
This isn’t Jackson’s first disciplinary flashpoint in recent weeks. His previous red card also raised eyebrows, and now questions are being asked about his temperament and ability to manage his aggression in high-stakes moments.
With the Blues now needing a victory to avoid an early exit, Maresca must find a way to compete without the forward.
Cole Palmer, who has also come under criticism for inconsistent performances during the tournament, may now carry even greater creative responsibility in the final third and Delap will likely be thrown in the deep end.
