Copa del Rey Trophies

Lore & Background

Barcelona were the defending champions, having beaten Real Madrid in the final of the previous edition, but were eliminated by Atlético Madrid in the semi-finals. The final was held at La Cartuja in Seville on 18 April 2026. Real Sociedad defeated Atlético Madrid 4–3 on penalties to win their third Copa del Rey title.

Reader's Guide

As across Spain, match times up to 26 October 2024 and from 30 March 2025 are CEST (UTC+2). Times on interim ("winter") days are CET (UTC+1). Matches played in the Canary Islands use the WET (UTC±00:00). Games ending in a draw were decided in extra time and, if still level, by a penalty shoot-out.

Historic Setting and Rivalry Renewed

The 2025 Copa del Rey final marked a monumental occasion in Spanish football history, serving as the climax of the tournament's 123rd edition. This specific match was notable for returning to the Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville, which had recently undergone significant expansion and conversion from an athletics track to accommodate future World Cup demands. The fixture featured the arch-rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid, representing their 260th competitive encounter overall. Crucially, this was the first time these two giants met in a Copa del Rey final since 2014, heightening the anticipation among fans. The atmosphere was electric as the teams prepared for what would become a decisive battle on April 26, 2025. Barcelona ultimately emerged victorious with a dramatic 3–2 scoreline after extra time, securing their record-extending 32nd title in the competition's long and storied history.

Pre-Match Controversy and Official Backlash

Tensions escalated significantly before kickoff due to a heated dispute involving the appointed match referee, Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea. Real Madrid's television channel aired a critical video alleging bias against them, citing statistics where Barcelona won more frequently under his supervision and questioning his lack of experience in major UEFA or FIFA tournaments. The broadcast included footage of alleged errors committed by the official against Los Blancos.

De Burgos Bengoetxea responded emotionally at a press conference, drawing parallels between professional scrutiny and personal attacks on family members, specifically mentioning how difficult it is for children to face ridicule about their parents' integrity. This conflict prompted warnings from video assistant referee Pablo González Fuertes regarding potential strikes by Spanish officials. In retaliation, Real Madrid withdrew entirely from pre-final media obligations, refusing to attend the press conference or official training sessions.

A Turbulent Match and Disciplinary Chaos

The final itself was marred by intense disciplinary issues that overshadowed the on-field action, resulting in three red cards issued exclusively to Real Madrid players. Antonio Rüdiger, who had already been substituted, received a sending-off during stoppage time of extra time for throwing an object toward the referee from the technical area. Lucas Vázquez was dismissed for aggressively entering the pitch to protest a decision, while Jude Bellingham was sent off after the final whistle for confronting the official in an aggressive manner that required teammates to restrain him.

The aftermath saw Rüdiger publicly apologizing for his conduct and admitting there was no excuse for disappointing fans, though he faced a potential suspension ranging from four to twelve matches depending on the severity classification. Vázquez received a two-match ban for the next season's cup competition, while Bellingham's dismissal was eventually rescinded following review.

Final Verdict and Sanction Outcomes

Following the chaotic conclusion of the match, the disciplinary committee moved swiftly to address the misconduct that had plagued the final moments. While Antonio Rüdiger expressed deep regret for his actions after throwing an object at the referee, he ultimately received a six-match ban across domestic competitions for this serious offense. Lucas Vázquez was confirmed to serve a two-match suspension specifically within the Copa del Rey framework of the upcoming season due to his aggressive pitch invasion.

In contrast, Jude Bellingham's red card for confronting the official after the whistle was officially rescinded, sparing him further punishment despite the initial dismissal. These outcomes highlighted the strict enforcement of conduct rules even amidst the high stakes of a final between Spain's biggest clubs. Ultimately, Barcelona celebrated their 32nd trophy, but the narrative remained heavily influenced by the disciplinary chaos that defined the latter stages of this historic encounter.