As Rodri emerges as the frontrunner, the club refuses to attend the prestigious event, citing discontent over the awards.
🚨⚠️ Not even one representative of Real Madrid is expected to travel to Paris tonight.
This is club’s decision after Vinicius Jr was made aware that he will not win the Ballon d’Or, as @FabriceHawkins said. pic.twitter.com/zRXmfam9H1
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 28, 2024
This year’s men’s shortlist is particularly significant, as it marks the first time since 2003 that both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are absent, ending a period of dominance in which they collectively claimed the award 13 times. Vinicius, who h as taken on Ronaldo’s iconic number seven shirt, has often been viewed as a potential successor to Messi, especially after a standout season that included major titles.