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Real Madrid's decision not to attend the Ballon d'Or ceremony has come under scrutiny
LaLiga President Javier Tebas has criticised Real Madrid’s last-minute boycott of the Ballon d'Or gala, labelling the club’s actions as “unnecessary and exaggerated.”
Tebas’s comments followed Real Madrid's unexpected decision to skip the Paris ceremony after it was revealed that Vinicius Junior missed out on the prestigious award, which went to Manchester City’s Rodri.
Tebas slams Real Madrid’s lack of class
The Spanish champions’ top brass, including President Florentino Perez, reportedly instructed all players and coaching staff to cancel their trip to the awards event, leading to diverse reactions from fans and pundits.
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In his response, Tebas took the opportunity to call out Real Madrid's board for what he viewed as a display of self-victimisation.
Speaking to the press, Tebas stated, “Real Madrid should’ve went to the Ballon d’Or gala, and not question France Football’s system.
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“The club’s self-victimization is unnecessary and exaggerated. I don’t know what they’re doing. This lack of class of theirs, we’re seeing it in Spain too.”
Real Madrid boycott draws divided reactions
Vinicius had been widely considered a favourite for the Ballon d'Or, with earlier reports even suggesting that leaked documents had the Brazilian star taking the award.
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Manager Carlo Ancelotti also shared high hopes for Vinicius following his stellar UEFA Champions League performance, but those hopes were dashed at the last minute as it became clear that Rodri would be named winner.
Despite missing out on the Ballon d'Or, Real Madrid received other accolades, including Team of the Year, with Ancelotti honoured as Coach of the Year.
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However, their last-minute boycott has sparked considerable controversy, with Tebas and others urging for a more sportsmanlike approach.
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