Real received three red cards in the last minute of extra time after protesting a free kick to Barcelona. The most wild in their protests was substitute German defender Antonio Rüdiger, who was held back by several teammates and leaders.
In his match report, referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea wrote that Rüdiger "threw an object from the technical area that did not reach me" and had an "aggressive attitude".
"Very sorry"
TV footage shows how the German throws something at de Burgos Bengoetxea, and is then held back, but still manages to tear apart an ice bag, but is prevented from throwing more things at the referee.
"There is really no excuse for my behavior last night. I am very sorry for it", Rüdiger writes in an Instagram story post.
"Before the final whistle, I made a mistake. Sorry again to the referee and everyone I let down last night."
In the same vein, Lucas Vázquez, also already substituted, and Jude Bellingham were also sent off for protesting. Rüdiger risks a longer suspension after his brain snap.
Before the final, Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea had defended himself against official statements from Real Madrid, where the capital club claimed that the referee was not neutral.
Late decision
Barcelona won the match after Jules Koundé scored the winning goal in the second half of extra time.
Madrid pushed us to the limit, but we showed proof of good character and pride, said match winner Koundé after the final.
The win means that Barcelona has now won the Copa del Rey a total of 32 times.
