The upcoming Ballon d'Or, which will take place in just a few days in Paris, has turned into an unexpected powder keg. What was supposed to be a celebration of world soccer now threatens to become an international controversy that's already being echoed by major European sports media.
The epicenter of the problem isn't among the nominees or in the voting results. What worries the organizers is the most talked-about absence: Real Madrid, which has decided not to send anyone to the gala.
This situation has its origin in last year's edition, when the award went to Rodri and not Vinícius. At that time, Florentino Pérez blocked a plane bound for Paris that was going to take 60 people from the club to the gala.
The historic disagreement is still kept between Florentino Pérez and the organization of France Football, the outlet that grants the award.
France Football tried to mediate
According to leaks in Paris, the organizing magazine made a move in recent weeks to try to ease tensions with Real Madrid. The management of France Football sent conciliatory messages to the club's leadership, even offering greater institutional prominence to the club during the ceremony. The intention was clear: to avoid another absence that would tarnish the gala.
However, Florentino Pérez keeps his refusal. He hasn't forgotten that last year he felt used as a mere extra. That wound, combined with the dynamics of this season, has led the club president to opt for a total boycott.
The memory of the past... blaugrana
Last year, the situation was already uncomfortable. The feeling was one of absolute irrelevance compared to the total prominence of FC Barcelona's players and other major European clubs. That didn't sit well with the club, which saw the ceremony as a blaugrana showcase against it.
Now, with the recent experience still fresh in memory, Florentino isn't willing to repeat the role of bystander. He doesn't want his players' image to be reduced to that of resigned spectators while their rivals go up on stage to collect awards.
The favorites for the Ballon d'Or
Moreover, the main problem is that this year the candidates for the title aren't wearing white. Among the most frequently mentioned names are Dembélé, Lamine Yamal, Pedri, and Raphinha, a Frenchman and three Barça footballers who've been decisive both in the Champions League and in their leagues.
At the club, they're aware that the 2025 Ballon d'Or has a blaugrana accent. That's why, in the Bernabéu box, no one feels attracted by the idea of sitting in Paris to applaud as their rivals take all the spotlight.
Boycott confirmed
The decision has been made and there's no turning back: no Real Madrid representative will attend the awards ceremony. Neither players, nor coaches, nor directors. It'll be the great absence of the night.
Florentino has given clear instructions for the club not to take part in what he sees as a media operation in Barça's favor. Although France Football did everything possible to reverse the situation, the boycott is now official. The 2025 Ballon d'Or will be awarded without Real Madrid's presence.