Recent reports from MARCA have affirmed that tensions between Real Madrid and the Ballon d’Or organisers remain unresolved.
After last year’s controversy, in which Vinicius Jr. was widely expected to win the award but Rodri from Manchester City ultimately claimed it, Real Madrid decided to boycott the ceremony entirely.
Last year, no representatives from the club attended as a form of protest, highlighting the club’s dissatisfaction with the process.
The outlet mentions that all the efforts to bridge the gap have so far failed.
A delegation from France Football recently visited Madrid to discuss the situation ahead of this year’s ceremony.
However, the meetings reportedly did not lead to any agreement, as Real Madrid continue to question the changes in scoring methods and criteria used to determine winners.
The club also points to UEFA’s involvement, which began last season, as a complicating factor.
UEFA’s awards, traditionally presented during the Champions League draw to celebrate the best in European football, now add another layer of tension, given the strained relations between Real Madrid and UEFA.
The dispute has had direct consequences on the individuals at the club as well. Carlo Ancelotti, who was recognised as one of the world’s best coaches for the 23-24 season, has yet to receive his inaugural Johan Cruyff Award.
As a result, the space that is meant to hold the award in his arsenal remains empty.
As the next Ballon d’Or ceremony approaches this month, all eyes are on whether Real Madrid will choose to participate or continue its protest.
With key figures like Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe in the running, the issue is far from being settled, and the debate over transparency and fairness in football’s top awards continues.