By Martin Graham
Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger has received a six-match suspension following an incident during the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona. The German international was sent off after throwing an item from the technical area toward referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea. Although the object did not strike the official, it led to a red card and disciplinary action.
According to the match official’s notes, Rudiger, 32, was dismissed for launching something from the sideline, later revealed to be an ice cube. He was among the substitutes at the time and reacted angrily to a foul awarded against Kylian Mbappe late in the contest. Fellow substitute Lucas Vazquez was also shown a red card for his response to the same decision.
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) cited “minor violence against the referees” in its official ruling, applying article 101 of its disciplinary code, which allows for bans ranging from four to twelve matches. The punishment will apply to La Liga fixtures, sidelining the defender for the final five league matches of the current season and the first round of the 2025-26 campaign.
Rudiger recently underwent a knee procedure that is expected to keep him out for several weeks. While Real Madrid did not confirm the length of his absence, Spanish outlets estimate a recovery period of six to eight weeks. This timeline suggests he is unlikely to play again this season and may also miss the upcoming Club World Cup beginning on 15 June.
Jude Bellingham, another Real Madrid player disciplined after the final whistle, has had his red card overturned. De Burgos Bengoetxea claimed the midfielder approached the officials in an aggressive manner and needed to be held back by teammates. However, Real presented video footage that countered this version of events, prompting the RFEF to withdraw the punishment.
In contrast, Lucas Vazquez has received a two-match suspension for his actions during the match. His ban will apply solely to future Copa del Rey contests.
Separately, Real Madrid have confirmed fresh injury setbacks. Ferland Mendy has sustained a hamstring problem, while David Alaba is dealing with a meniscus tear in his left knee.
Rudiger has expressed regret over his behavior during the final. In a statement, he acknowledged there was “definitely no excuse” for what happened. The club attempted to use his apology to reduce the severity of the ban, according to the disciplinary report.
