Vinicius Jr and Atta Poku
Sports journalist Collins Atta Poku has criticized Spanish giants Real Madrid for their decision to snub the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony.
He questioned the club’s decision to boycott the Ballon d’Or and attend the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) Best Awards Ceremony on December 17, 2024.
He stated that despite their ambition for Vinicius Jr. winning the accolade not coming to pass, it would have been prudent for the team’s contingent to honor the ceremony with their presence.
The Sompa FM journalist chided Real Madrid for boycotting the Ballon d’Or award ceremony, noting that it does not promote sportsmanship and unity as sports aim to achieve.
“Real Madrid should bow their heads in shame. The behavior they exhibited is bad and it does not show good signs. Those who voted for them in this award, are they not humans? For sportsmanship, they should have gone [to the Ballon d’Or ceremony] because not winning does not change anything.
“Ancelotti was smiling while receiving his award. We should not let commercial interest override football interest. No matter how huge FIFA is, the Ballon d’Or prestige is bigger,” he said in Twi while speaking on Sompa FM.
It will be recalled that Madrid boycotted the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony after they discovered that Manchester City midfielder Rodri was going to win the award.
The news generated controversy and criticism from players, coaches, and football administrators.
The team, however, showed up at the FIFA Best Awards ceremony where Vinicius won the Player of the Year Award.
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