ATLETICO MADRID striker Diego Costa’s season is over after he was suspended for eight games for allegedly insulting a referee.

Costa was shown a red card in the first half of Atletico’s 2-0 loss to Barcelona on Saturday, a result that practically ended the team’s hopes of contending for the Spanish league title.

He was accused of insulting referee Jesus Gil Manzano while complaining about a non-call of a foul on him.

Manzano showed Costa a direct red card and the striker was furious, repeatedly going after the referee to try to make his case. He grabbed Manzano’s arm at one point and players from both teams tried to contain him.

Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak pushed Costa away from the referee and Barcelona defender Gerard Pique eventually escorted Costa from the field.

Those defending Costa said the player cursed but the insults were not directed at Manzano.

Atletico can appeal the ruling against Costa.