In a surprising turn of events, Vinicius Jr. and Real Madrid are reportedly planning to skip the Ballon d’Or ceremony, set for Monday night at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, where the 2024 winner will be announced.
Vinicius was initially considered a strong contender for the award, alongside top players like Rodri, Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappe. However, just hours before the ceremony, RMC Sport's Fabrice Hawkins shared on social media that Vinicius's team now doubts he will secure the title, a sentiment echoed by many in Madrid.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that no one from Real Madrid, including Florentino Perez, Vinicius Jr., Carlo Ancelotti, or Jude Bellingham, will attend the event. Romano posted on X: “BREAKING: Vinicius Jr will NOT travel to Paris as Real Madrid believes he will NOT win the Ballon d’Or. No one from Real Madrid will be at the ceremony—no Florentino Pérez, no Vini Jr, no Carlo Ancelotti, no Jude Bellingham.”
Hawkins added that Madrid's leadership is reportedly frustrated, firmly believing Vinicius will not be awarded the Ballon d'Or. The club has decided to stay in Spain, canceling their plans for the trip to Paris.
Speculation suggests Manchester City’s Rodri might take home the prestigious award, with Vinicius and Bellingham trailing behind. During the buildup, Rodri commented, "A Spaniard deserves to win. Spanish football deserves a Ballon d’Or winner."
The official winner will be revealed tonight at the highly anticipated ceremony in Paris.