Rudiger apologizes for throwing object at referee in Copa Del Rey Final

Antonio Rudiger has apologized after being sent off in the Copa del Rey final. He threw an object at the referee during Real Madrid's loss to Barcelona.

Rudiger and teammate Lucas Vazquez received red cards for their reactions. They were upset about a foul called against Kylian Mbappe before the match ended.

Jude Bellingham, a 21-year-old midfielder, was also sent off for dissent. Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea reported that Rudiger threw an ice cube at him.

Rudiger expressed regret on Instagram, saying, "There’s definitely no excuse for my behaviour." He added, "I’m very sorry for that," and apologized to the referee and fans.

The German defender may face a lengthy ban under RFEF disciplinary rules. If sanctioned under article 101 for "mild violence," he could be suspended for four to 12 matches.

If his actions are seen as more serious under article 104, he could face three to six months of suspension. This applies if it is considered a single act without harmful consequences.

If deemed to pose a "serious risk," even without medical attention needed, the ban could last from six months to a year.