In recent hours, controversy erupted after it was confirmed that Vinicius Junior would not win the Ballon d’Or, a decision that shocked the football world as he was seen as a strong contender. This announcement stirred unrest in the sports community and angered Real Madrid officials, leading them to cancel their planned trip to Paris for the France Football ceremony.
The Real Madrid delegation, which included over 50 members—managers, players, and their families—was set to support Vinicius on what was expected to be his crowning day, but all plans were scrapped.
According to journalist Josep Pedrerol, the club is blaming UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin for the situation, citing ongoing hostility toward the club and its players. Florentino Pérez linked this incident to the broader conflict between UEFA and the European Super League, suggesting it has adversely affected Vinicius’s career.
On November 3, 2023, UEFA announced a partnership with France Football and L’Equipe to manage the Ballon d’Or from 2024, granting Ceferin significant control over the award, which many now see as diminished in credibility.
