In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the football world, Real Madrid have announced a complete boycott of the upcoming Ballon d'Or awards ceremony. The Spanish giants are taking a firm stand against the event's organisers, whom they accuse of a deliberate lack of respect towards the club and its players.
The decision means that no representatives from the reigning La Liga and Champions League holders will be present at the prestigious gala in Paris on October 28th. This includes president Florentino Perez and key players like Vinicius Junior, who were central figures in the club's spectacularly successful 2023/24 season.
The Heart of the Dispute
According to reports from Spain, the rift stems from perceived slights by Football France, the magazine behind the award. The club feels its leadership and squad have not been accorded the respect their achievements warrant.
This is not an isolated incident. Tensions have been simmering for years, with Real Madrid officials reportedly feeling that the Ballon d'Or's voting process and organisation consistently undervalue their accomplishments. This final decision to boycott is seen as the culmination of these long-standing frustrations.
Who Will Be Missing?
The absence of Real Madrid's contingent will be glaring. The following key figures will be notably absent from the red carpet:
- Florentino Perez: The powerful club president, a towering figure in European football.
- Vinicius Jr: A favourite for a high ranking after a sensational season.
- Other key players from the double-winning squad.
This collective snub significantly diminishes the star power of the event and raises questions about the award's relationship with one of the sport's most successful institutions.
A History of Tension
This boycott is the latest chapter in a complicated history between Real Madrid and the Ballon d'Or. Many at the club believe their players, particularly Karim Benzema prior to his 2022 win, were overlooked for years despite world-class performances.
The decision also casts a shadow over the legitimacy of the award itself. When a club of Real Madrid's stature openly rejects the ceremony, it challenges the event's prestige and authority within the game.
All eyes will now be on Paris to see how the ceremony proceeds without its most decorated guest. This bold move by Real Madrid signals a deep fracture, the repercussions of which will be felt long after the golden ball is handed out.
