Rudiger Issues Apology After Tossing Object at Referee During Final Defeat, Risks Lengthy Suspension

Antonio Rudiger, the Real Madrid defender, has expressed his remorse following his explosive outburst during the 3-2 extra-time defeat against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday. His reaction led to a straight red card after he hurled an object at the referee in a fit of rage.

The controversial moment unfolded when the referee awarded a foul against Kylian Mbappe for a challenge on Eric Garcia, denying Real Madrid a critical opportunity to equalise just moments after Jules Kounde had netted the winner for Barcelona in the 116th minute.

Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea’s decision ignited fury among the Real Madrid squad, particularly Rudiger, who had already been substituted and was seated on the bench.

In his anger, Rudiger received a straight red card and had to be restrained by teammates and coaching staff to halt his urge to storm the pitch and throw ice bags at the match official.

“There’s absolutely no justification for my actions last night, and I deeply regret it,” Rudiger stated on his social media platforms on Sunday.

“We performed exceptionally well from the second half onwards. After 111 minutes, I was unable to contribute further to my team, and I made a mistake before the final whistle.”

“I apologise again to the referee and to anyone I let down last night.”

Following the final whistle, Rudiger’s teammates, Lucas Vazquez and Jude Bellingham, were also handed red cards for unsportsmanlike behaviour. However, it is Rudiger who faces the possibility of a more severe punishment due to his actions.

According to regulations from the Spanish FA, Rudiger could face a suspension spanning four to twelve matches, and such a severe penalty would apply across all domestic competitions, including LaLiga.

As it stands, Real Madrid, the reigning champions of Spain and Europe, must now focus solely on La Liga, their last opportunity for silverware this season. They currently trail Barcelona by four points with only five matches remaining.