At Real Madrid’s annual general meeting, Florentino Perez was quick to express his displeasure at the Ballon d’Or 2024 award, which went to Vinícius Jr. In front of the assembled socios, the Madrid club president openly criticized the voting process and its results.
“This year, unknown journalists from countries such as Uganda, Namibia, Albania and Finland took part in the vote. Without their votes, Vinícius would have won the Ballon d’Or”, he asserted, his words relayed by the local media. A statement that may well offend the journalists concerned.
The prestigious trophy was finally awarded to Manchester City’s Spanish midfielder Rodri, who beat Vinícius Jr by 41 points. This decision continues to provoke reactions from the Madrid club.
Florentino Perez took advantage of his speech to offer his support to the Brazilian winger. “Dear Vini, Real Madrid fans are proud of you. What you have unjustly endured on several occasions has made you the exceptional player you are today,” he declared.
In protest, the Madrid president and the entire Real Madrid delegation boycotted last month’s Ballon d’Or ceremony at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris.
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