Real Madrid on Collision Course with Ballon d’Or Organisers Once Again?
Real Madrid are reportedly set to boycott the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony for the second year in a row, according to Spanish outlet Marca.
As per reports, a delegation from France Football made a discreet trip to Madrid in an attempt to resolve ongoing tensions between the club and the organisers. However, those talks have been described as “unsuccessful”, with both parties failing to reach any common ground.
The rift dates back to last year's Ballon d’Or ceremony, when many expected Vinícius Júnior to be named the winner. Instead, the award went to Rodri, a decision that reportedly caught the Madrid camp by surprise — especially considering several “insiders” had tipped Vinícius for the top prize.
Having already prepared a celebration in anticipation of his win, Vinícius decided to boycott the event altogether. In solidarity, other key figures at the club — including head coach Carlo Ancelotti — also refused to travel to Paris. Ironically, Ancelotti had just been named Coach of the Year, but has yet to collect his trophy.