Rudiger Receives Six-Game Ban After Copa del Rey Final Incident

Seville, Spain – Antonio Rudiger, a defender for Real Madrid, has been suspended for six matches after he threw an object at referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea during the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on April 29, 2025. The match ended with a 3-2 defeat for Madrid in an intense extra-time showdown.

The Spanish Football Federation’s Disciplinary Committee stated that Rudiger’s action constituted “minor violence against referees.” He was shown a red card for his behavior, which took place after being substituted late in the game. The report noted that Rudiger displayed an aggressive demeanor and needed to be restrained by coaching staff members.

Alongside Rudiger, Lucas Vazquez also received a two-match suspension for protesting excessively after the match. In an unusual twist, midfielder Jude Bellingham’s red card was lifted upon review. The committee found that the footage contradicted the referee’s account, revealing that Bellingham did not act aggressively toward officials, as claimed.

Rudiger publicly apologized via social media, stating, “There’s definitely no excuse for my behavior. I’m very sorry for that … I did a mistake. Sorry again to the referee and to everyone I have disappointed.” Following the game, Rudiger underwent knee surgery, which will prevent him from participating in the remainder of La Liga and potentially the upcoming Club World Cup.

The tension before the match had been high, with Real Madrid officials expressing concerns over perceived bias from officiating. Madrid had canceled pre-match events, expressing that the referees demonstrated “hostility and animosity” towards the team, following critical discussions aired on their in-house television.

Despite their loss and disciplinary actions, Madrid’s players emphasized that proper conduct should prevail, especially amid increasing scrutiny and pressure on referees. The situation has sparked a broader discussion about sportsmanship and respect for officials in football.

Real Madrid is set to resume their La Liga campaign against Celta Vigo on May 4, where they will play without Rudiger in the lineup.