Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone will be able to take his place in the dugout against Juventus next week after avoiding a ban for his explicit gesture.
UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body announced on Thursday that Simeone would instead be fined €20,000.
The former Inter and Lazio midfielder caused controversy with his celebration after Juve had fallen a goal behind in their Champions League last-16 first leg, turning towards the fans at the Wanda Metropolitano and grabbing his crotch.
Although he insisted the gesture ‘came from his heart’, many viewed it as a protest towards VAR, which penalised his side twice.
Nonetheless, AS explains the Argentine attended the hearing and apologised for his actions, arguing it was a spontaneous response, which emphasised the character of his team.
The second leg of the tie takes place in Turin next Tuesday, with Atleti 2-0 up on aggregate.