Real Madrid boycotts Ball d'Or. Image: Radio Marca.
(The Post News)– Real Madrid has confirmed it will boycott the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris on September 22, marking the second consecutive year the club will snub football’s most prestigious individual award. The Spanish giants accuse France Football (the award’s organizers) and UEFA of voting bias and a lack of transparency in the selection process.
The club’s stance follows last year’s controversy when Vinícius Junior was overlooked for the award despite an exceptional season. The omission sparked outrage among fans and led to failed reconciliation talks between Real Madrid officials and award organizers. The club insists the decision to boycott is not a publicity stunt but a call for reform in how winners are determined.
Several Real Madrid Players on Ballon d’Or Shortlist
Ironically, several of Madrid’s biggest stars, including Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham, are on this year’s shortlist, yet the club has stated it will stand by its principles until what it calls a “fair and transparent process” is put in place. The boycott has drawn mixed responses from the football community. Supporters argue the move is a principled stand against favoritism in football’s top awards.
Some view it as an act of entitlement, noting that Real Madrid players have historically dominated Ballon d’Or wins. With legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric, and Karim Benzema lifting the trophy.
This dispute highlights ongoing tensions between major clubs, governing bodies, and award organizers over recognition, fairness, and transparency. Whether Real Madrid’s boycott will pressure France Football into reforms remains uncertain, but it ensures the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony will be overshadowed by controversy.
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