Real Madrid reportedly set to boycott Ballon d’Or ceremony over Vinicius Jr snub

Real Madrid is reportedly planning to boycott tonight’s Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris following indications that Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr will not be awarded football’s most coveted individual honor.

Despite Vinicius’s outstanding season, reports now suggest that Manchester City midfielder Rodri is the frontrunner to take home the prestigious award.

The news was first reported by Paris-based outlet RMC Sport, which revealed that Real Madrid’s leadership, including President Florentino Perez, is “furious” about the decision.

In response, the club is said to have canceled its official presence at the ceremony.

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RMC quoted Perez’s dismay, adding that the club feels “disrespected” by the decision, which they believe undervalues the accomplishments of both Vinicius Jr and fellow Real Madrid star Dani Carvajal, who the club contends also deserves consideration.

Journalist Fabrice Hawkins reported that those close to Vinicius Jr now believe he will not be crowned the Ballon d’Or winner.

“Everyone in Madrid has this feeling,” Hawkins noted, suggesting that the disappointment runs deep within the club’s ranks.

The Ballon d’Or is expected to be awarded to 28-year-old Rodri, who enjoyed a stellar season, anchoring Manchester City’s midfield on the way to their fourth Premier League title in six years and leading Spain to a Euro 2024 championship win over England.

Vinicius Jr is predicted to finish second, with his Real Madrid teammate, Jude Bellingham, reportedly coming in third.