Rudiger Apologizes: Real Madrid Defender Faces Ban After Copa del Rey Final Red Card

Antonio Rudiger apologizes for throwing an object at the referee in the Copa del Rey final, potentially facing a lengthy suspension. Read more.

Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger has apologized for his behavior in the Copa del Rey final loss to Barcelona. He was sent off after throwing an object at the referee in frustration.

Incident Recap

The incident occurred when the referee awarded a foul for Kylian Mbappe's challenge on Eric Garcia, denying Real Madrid a potential equalizing chance. Barcelona had just scored the winner in extra time, and Rudiger's actions sparked controversy.

Rudiger's Red Card

Antonio Rudiger's reaction to a decision by Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea sparked a straight red card. The German defender was restrained by teammates and staff after being substituted earlier in the match.

Rudiger Apologizes

“There's definitely no excuse for my behaviour last night. I'm very sorry for that,” Rudiger said on social media. “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 did a mistake.” Rudiger added, “Sorry again to the referee and to everyone I have disappointed last night.”

There's definitely no excuse for my behaviour last night. I'm very sorry for that. We played a very good game from the 2nd half on - After 111 minutes I was not able to help my team anymore and before the final whistle I did a mistake. Sorry again to the referee and to everyone I…

— Antonio Rüdiger (@ToniRuediger) April 27, 2025

More Red Cards

Lucas Vázquez and Jude Bellingham also received red cards for unsportsmanlike conduct after the final whistle. However, Rudiger's actions pose the biggest risk, potentially facing a severe suspension.

Potential Suspension

Rudiger could face a four-to-12-match ban according to Spanish FA regulations. If imposed, the suspension would apply to all domestic competitions, including LaLiga, which is now Real Madrid's only chance for silverware this season. The team trails Barcelona by four points with five games remaining.