LaLiga President Javier Tebas has condemned Real Madrid’s last-minute boycott of the prstigious awards, calling the move “unnecessary and exaggerated”.
Tebas remarks come after real Madrid opted out of the Paris event upon learning that Vinicius Jr. had lost the Ballon d’Or to Manchester City‘s Rodri. Reportedly, club President Florentino Perez instructed the players and coaching staff to cancel their attendance, a decision that drawn mixed reactions from fans and analysts.
In his statement, Tebas criticized Real Madrid’s leadership, accusing them of adopting a self-victimizing stance.”Real Madrid should’ve went to the Ballon d’Or gala, and not question France Football’s system,” Tebas stated. “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.”
Vinicius was widely regarded as a front-runner for the award, with leaked reports earlier suggesting that the Brazillian would take home the award.
Head coach Carlo Ancelotti also expressed optimism about Vinicius’ chances following his outstanding Champions League Campaign. However, those hopes were dashed when it was revealed Rodri had claimed the award.
Despite the Ballon d’Or disappointment, Real Madrid still secured recognition, winning Team of the Year, while Ancelotti was named Coach of the Year.
Nevertheless, the decision to boycott the event has sparked backlash, with Tebas and others calling for a more gracious approach from the club.
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