by Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior speaks during the Spanish LaLiga football match between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona on October 26, 2024 in Madrid, Spain. EPA-EFE/JUANJO MARTIN
Former Inter striker Luis Figo is one of several high-profile football figures who have criticized the decision not to award the 2024 Ballon d’Or to Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr.
Figo criticizes Vinicius Jr.’s decision for the Ballon d’Or
Figo, who won the award himself in 2000 at Real Madrid, said the Ballon d’Or “has remained a prestigious award to this day” as he walked the red carpet at the ceremony in Paris on Monday night.
Multiple reports leading up to the event claimed Vinicius Jr. was the clear favorite to take the top prize. However, reports of the day said the final award would actually go to Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri instead.
As a result, Real Madrid have reportedly decided to boycott the awards, meaning there will also be neither Jude Bellingham nor Dani Carvajal, both of whom made the top 10. Coach of the Year nominee Carlo Ancelotti is also in attendance. He is not expected to attend, nor is club president Florentino Perez.
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🥊 I would like to hear from Luís Figo, thank you #BalloonDor in 2000#BalonDeOroEnAS pic.twitter.com/jzUbYugH3b
– Diario AS (@diarioas) October 28, 2024
