Challenges in the Life of Sergio Ramos in a Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Sergio Ramos's life and career.

Sergio Ramos is a Spanish professional footballer renowned as one of history's best defenders. Currently captain of Liga MX club Monterrey, he previously captained Real Madrid and the Spain national team. Known for his exceptional tackling, aerial prowess, leadership qualities, and goal-scoring ability as a defender, Ramos achieved significant success at Real Madrid, winning four UEFA Champions League titles. He also secured two UEFA European Championships and the 2010 FIFA World Cup while representing Spain.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

2004: End of Euro Tournament Streak

In 2020, Sergio Ramos' exclusion from UEFA Euro 2020 ended a run of featuring in every major tournament since Euro 2004.

September 2005: First Red Card

On 18 September 2005, Sergio Ramos received his first red card after two bookable offences in a loss to Espanyol.

November 2010: Sent Off Against Barcelona

On 29 November 2010, Sergio Ramos was sent off in Real Madrid's 5–0 loss at Barcelona.

January 2013: Red Card and Suspension

On 9 January 2013, Sergio Ramos was sent off and received a four-match suspension for insulting the referee.

December 2013: Club Record Red Card

On 14 December 2013, Sergio Ramos received a club record 18th red card for Real Madrid in a 2–2 draw at Osasuna.

March 2014: 19th Red Card

On 23 March 2014, Sergio Ramos received his 19th red card in a 4–3 home defeat to Barcelona.

April 2016: Red Card in Clásico

On 2 April 2016, Sergio Ramos returned from suspension in a 2–1 victory against Barcelona at Camp Nou, where he was again sent off.

June 2016: UEFA Euro 2016

In June 2016, Ramos captained Spain at UEFA Euro. He had a penalty saved in a loss to Croatia, and Spain crashed out in the Round of 16 against Italy.

January 2017: Own Goal and 50th La Liga Goal

In January 2017, Ramos scored an own goal against Sevilla, contributing to Real Madrid's 2–1 defeat and ending their 40-match unbeaten streak. However, he quickly redeemed himself by scoring both goals in a 2–1 win over Málaga, marking his 50th La Liga goal.

April 2017: Red Card in El Clásico and La Liga Title

In April 2017, Ramos received a red card in El Clásico for a challenge on Lionel Messi. Despite the defeat, Real Madrid secured their 33rd La Liga title, Ramos' fourth and first as captain.

August 2017: Red Card in La Liga

In August 2017, during Real Madrid's first La Liga game of the 2017–18 season, Ramos received his 23rd career red card, equalling the record for the most red cards in La Liga.

2018: FIFA World Cup

In 2018, Ramos participated in his fourth FIFA World Cup, his first as captain. Spain was eliminated by Russia in the Round of 16 despite Ramos scoring a penalty in the shootout.

February 2019: Best Goal-Scoring Season and Champions League Suspension

In February 2019, Ramos achieved his best goal-scoring season at Real Madrid. However, he also received a controversial booking in a Champions League match, leading to a two-game suspension.

February 2020: Red Card Record in Champions League

In February 2020, Ramos equaled the record for most red cards received in the UEFA Champions League. Later in February 2020, he participated in Real Madrid's victory over Barcelona in La Liga.

2020: Excluded from UEFA Euro 2020 Squad

In 2020, Sergio Ramos was excluded from the squad for UEFA Euro 2020, following a season plagued by injuries. This omission marked the first major tournament since Euro 2004 where he was not selected for the national team, putting an end to a streak of participation in ten consecutive tournaments.