Rudiger reacts after throwing object at referee

In a dramatic conclusion to the 2025 Copa del Rey final, Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger faces a significant suspension after being sent off for throwing an object at referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea during Real Madrid's 3–2 extra-time loss to Barcelona.

The Incident

The match, held at La Cartuja Stadium in Seville on April 26, 2025, was already tense, with Barcelona leading 3–2 in the final minutes of extra time. In the 120th minute, following a contentious foul called against Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappé, Rüdiger, who had been substituted earlier, reacted furiously from the bench. He reportedly threw bags of ice toward the referee and had to be restrained by teammates and coaching staff. Referee De Burgos Bengoetxea issued a straight red card to Rüdiger for his actions, noting in his official report that the player displayed an aggressive attitude and had to be held back by several members of the coaching staff.

Apology and Potential Sanctions

The following day, Rüdiger issued a public apology on social media, stating: "There's definitely no excuse for my behaviour last night. I'm very sorry for that. We played a very good game from the second half on. After 111 minutes, I was not able to help my team anymore, and before the final whistle, I made a mistake. Sorry again to the referee and to everyone I have disappointed last night." 

According to the Spanish Football Federation's regulations, Rüdiger could face a suspension ranging from four to twelve matches. If his actions are deemed more severe, classified as an assault against a referee, the ban could extend up to six months.

Broader Context

Rüdiger's outburst was part of a broader display of dissent from Real Madrid players. Lucas Vázquez was also sent off for entering the field to protest a decision, and Jude Bellingham received a red card after the final whistle for aggressively approaching the referee.

The match's officiating had been a point of contention even before kickoff. Real Madrid TV had aired a segment criticizing De Burgos Bengoetxea's past performances, leading to heightened tensions. The referee later expressed emotional distress over the scrutiny, stating that such criticism affected not only him but also his family.

Implications for Real Madrid

This incident adds to Real Madrid's challenges as they aim to salvage their season. With the Copa del Rey and Champions League titles out of reach, their focus shifts to La Liga, where they trail Barcelona by five points with five games remaining.

The potential suspension of key players like Rüdiger could impact their performance in the crucial final stretch of the season.