Why Real Madrid were absent from Ballon d'Or 2024 ceremony

Real Madrid issued a scathing response after it emerged neither of their prime contenders would win the 2024 Ballon d'Or, claiming they are "not respected" by UEFA.

No representatives from the La Liga and Champions League holders were present for Monday night's ceremony in Paris, where Rodri was declared the best player in the world.

Leaks earlier in the day had revealed main favourite Vinicius Junior would not be receiving the award despite his brilliant performances throughout the 2023/24 campaign. The Brazilian finished second to Rodri, while Dani Carvajal - who also won Euro 2024 with Spain - came fourth behind teammate Jude Bellingham.

Madrid then stopped their would-be attendees from attending the awards evening, making for awkward viewing as Kylian Mbappe and Carlo Ancelotti picked up prizes without being present. In a statement, Madrid insisted the Ballon d'Or not being awarded to one of their players was a sign of disrespect.

It reads: "If the award criteria doesn't give it to Vinicius as the winner, then those same criteria should point to Carvajal as the winner.

"As this was not the case, it is clear that Ballon d'Or-Uefa does not respect Real Madrid. And Real Madrid does not go where it is not respected."

France Football editor-in-chief Vincent Garcia responded to the Spanish giants' outburst, telling L'Equipe: "No-one knew at Real or at City. Maybe El Clasico didn't help. I don't know.

"The emotion that Rodri had on stage, that is the best answer. He was not aware of anything.

"I had a lot of pressure from Real Madrid but, as with other clubs, I was always clear and fair. Maybe my silence made them change their minds.

"It was a close victory, it wasn't decided by much.

"Vinicius probably suffered from the presence of Bellingham and Carvajal in the top five because, mathematically, it took away a few points."

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