Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger has received a six-match suspension for throwing an object at the referee during the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona. The incident occurred after Rudiger, along with teammate Lucas Vazquez, was shown a straight red card for their aggressive reactions to a foul called against Kylian Mbappe just before the match concluded. Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea reported that Rudiger was dismissed for "throwing an object from the technical area" that narrowly missed him.

According to reports, Rudiger threw an ice cube at the official, which led to the disciplinary action from the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). The organization issued the ban under article 101 of their disciplinary code, which addresses "mild violence" towards referees, stating that suspensions can range from four to twelve matches. Rudiger's six-game suspension will be served in league matches, meaning he will miss the remainder of the current La Liga season and the opening match of the 2025-26 season.

Unfortunately for Rudiger, the ban may have limited impact on his immediate playing time. He recently underwent knee surgery, which is expected to sideline him for six to eight weeks, effectively ruling him out for the remainder of the domestic season and putting his participation in the upcoming Club World Cup in doubt.

In light of the incident, Rudiger has publicly apologized, acknowledging that there was "definitely no excuse" for his behavior. This apology was considered by Real Madrid as a mitigating factor in hopes of reducing his suspension. Meanwhile, Vazquez has been handed a two-match suspension, which will apply to Copa del Rey fixtures.

The situation continues to unfold as Real Madrid deals with the ramifications of the incident and their injury woes, including a hamstring injury to left-back Ferland Mendy and a meniscus rupture for central defender David Alaba.