By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Real Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger faces a lengthy ban after appearing to throw a missile towards the referee in a fit of anger in the Copa del Rey final.
In the final stages of Real’s 3-2 loss to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final, Rudiger and his Real team-mates were incensed by a decision that went in Barca’s favour as Kylian Mbappe attempted to mount an attack. Rudiger was so angry at the decision, he appeared to throw a missile, believed to be ice, towards the referee. He was shown a red card, as were Lucas Vazquez and Jude Bellingham, after the trio attempted to protest.
Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea said in his report that centre-back Rudiger, 32, was dismissed for “throwing an object from the technical area, which missed me”. Rudiger reportedly threw an ice cube at the official.
The Germany defender could be facing a lengthy ban, according to the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) disciplinary code.
If sanctioned under article 101, which covers “mild violence” towards referees, Rudiger could receive a suspension of between four and 12 matches.
However, if his actions are deemed more serious, article 104, which covers “assault against referees”, states players may be banned for three to six months if “the act was a single act and did not cause any harmful consequences”.
If the act is deemed as having posed a “serious risk” even without the referee requiring medical attention, the suspension could extend to between six months and a year.
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti is expected to leave the club following the Copa del Rey defeat.
Ancelotti is set for more talks about taking over as Brazil coach before the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in June.
The 65-year-old Italian will meet representatives acting on behalf of the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF).
Ancelotti is the number one choice to replace Dorival Junior, who was sacked after Brazil’s 4-1 defeat by old rivals Argentina in Buenos Aires last month.