The divorce seems to be consumed between Real Madrid and the Ballon d'Or. Like last year, the Madrid giant will indeed shine by his absence, on September 22, on the scene of the Théâtre du Chatelet. Merengue leaders have indeed decided to boycott the 2025 Golden Ball ceremony.
Last year, Real Madrid, informed of the coronation of Rodri in front of Vinicius, had boycotted the gala while the Madrid delegation was preparing to fly to Paris. This time, no merengue player seems able to win.
Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius among the 30 finalists
The list of 30 finalists unveiled in early August by France Football, includes three players from Real Madrid – Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius – but none is expected on the podium, or even in the top 5, the tricolor world champion in front of the best of an accessit.
If Thibaut Courtois is also appointed for the Yachine Trophy rewarding the best goalkeeper and if Caroline Weir is one of the nominees for the female Ballon d'Or, neither should prevail either.
This boycott is not a surprise since, unlike other European cadors, Real Madrid had taken care to make no allusion to the various appointments announced by France Football. A silence heavy with meaning.
