“VICTORY OR INFLUENCE?THE 2024 BALLON D’OR WINNER SPARKS DEBATE ON POLITICS OVER FOOTBALL’S MOST PRESTIGEOUS AWARD”

The 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony took an unexpected turn when Manchester City midfielder Rodri claimed the coveted trophy, surpassing Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior, who many had anticipated would be the winner. Rodri’s win highlighted his pivotal role in Manchester City’s treble victory, yet it ignited a wave of controversy among fans, Real Madrid, and Vinícius supporters who felt that the Brazilian star’s performances merited the award.

Real Madrid’s frustration was evident as the club chose to boycott the event after hearing rumors about Rodri’s victory. They canceled a planned delegation to the ceremony, interpreting the decision as a lack of respect from the Ballon d’Or committee. Some reports indicated that the decision to award Rodri over Vinícius might have involved “last-minute changes” to the script, which Didier Drogba, the host, alluded to—fueling speculation of potential political or organizational influences behind the choice.

The outcome sparked debates over how such awards often reflect broader biases or strategic decisions beyond player performance alone. Some fans believe Vinícius’s outspoken stance on racial issues in Spain may have influenced the outcome, given the potential sensitivities within European football politics.

This year’s decision highlights ongoing tension between individual achievements and the underlying currents of football politics, making Rodri’s win as much a statement about City’s dominance as it is a judgment on individual performance.