Real Madrid Defender Antonio Rudiger to Face Lengthy Ban Following ‘Throwing Object’ Incident During Copa Del Rey Final Against Barcelona
It was Real Madrid’s third loss against Barcelona in the 2024-25 season, and second in the cup competition final, losing the Copa Del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup in the process. And above all, with the Champions League exit and the current state in the League standings, the Whites might go trophyless in the 2024-25 season. A rare occurrence in their storied history, and no one wanted to be part of it. Not Antonio Rudiger at least. His frustration was visible on the field. And now he might have to pay for his actions.
In the final stages of the Copa del Rey final, Los Blancos were already a feeling the tensions. Every decision was important and then the moment arrive where Madrid players couldn’t hold back. Rudiger and his Real teammates were angry at a decision that went in Barca’s favor. The Real Madrid defender substituted in the extra time couldn’t hold back and camera captured him as he appeared to throw a missile, bag of ice, towards the referee.
He was shown a straight red card, and other complainants, Lucas Vazquez and Jude Bellingham, were also given marching orders after the trio attempted to protest. Bellingham and Vazquez’s card comes under article 124 of the Spanish Federation’s (RFEF’s) disciplinary code. This will launch a two-game ban, which will now be served in next season’s Copa del Rey tournament.
Antonio Rudiger, though, could face stricter action. His actions, caught on camera, fall under article 101 of the RFEF’s disciplinary code, which has serious consequences. As per the rule, “Mild violence toward the referees. Grabbing, pushing, or shaking, or generally using other attitudes toward the referees that, while only mildly violent, will result in a suspension of four to twelve matches.”
Antonio Rudiger Apologies on Social Media
One can label Rudiger’s act as an action taken in the heat of the moment. It was uncalled for and was brutal in the eyes of laws. After the game, Rudiger also realized the importance of keeping cool in the tough conditions and took the help of social media to apologise for his behaviour.
Also Read: UEFA Planning Key Format Tweaks for 2025–26 Champions League Season.
While two of his teammates, Jesus Vallejo and Ferland Mendy, tried to stop him from any violent actions, the damage was already done. Rudiger shared a post, opening his feelings.
“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 have disappointed last night,” Rudiger’s post read.
While the apology does put him in good light, it might hardly affect the rules and penalty. Rudiger has been important player for Carlo Ancelotti’s team and missing him for longer period cold force them to change tactics in upcoming matches. RFEF will clarify the ruling’s effect by making it public.
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