Antonio Rüdiger Issues Public Apology After Red Card Rage in Copa del Rey Final
By IDNN Sports Desk
Published April 27, 2025
Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger has issued a public apology following his dramatic red card incident during Saturday’s Copa del Rey final defeat to Barcelona.
The German centre-back, who had been substituted earlier, lost control after referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea awarded a foul against Kylian Mbappé late in extra time, denying Real Madrid a chance to equalise after Jules Koundé had made it 3-2 for Barcelona.
In a furious reaction, Rüdiger threw an object — reportedly a bag of ice — toward the referee and had to be physically restrained by teammates and coaching staff. He was immediately shown a straight red card.
Rüdiger took to social media on Sunday to express regret.
“There’s definitely no excuse for my behaviour last night. I’m very sorry for that,” he wrote.
“After 111 minutes, I was not able to help my team anymore, and before the final whistle, I made a mistake. Sorry again to the referee and to everyone I have disappointed.”
The fallout could be severe. Under Spanish FA regulations, Rüdiger faces a suspension ranging from four to twelve matches, which would apply across all domestic competitions, including LaLiga.
Real Madrid teammates Lucas Vázquez and Jude Bellingham were also sent off for unsportsmanlike conduct after the final whistle, though Rüdiger’s case is considered the most serious.
Real Madrid, last season’s Spanish and European champions, now have only LaLiga left to fight for, trailing Barcelona by four points with five matches remaining.
The disciplinary committee is expected to rule on Rüdiger’s punishment in the coming days.
