Real Madrid end France Football boycott to attend Ballon d'Or gala for first time since 2023
Kylian Mbappé
Photo by thenews2.com - Depositphotos
Real Madrid have officially called time on their high-profile feud with France Football and will be in attendance at tonight’s Ballon d'Or ceremony in London, ending a two-year boycott of the sport's most prestigious individual awards gala.
The Spanish giants are prominently represented across virtually every major men's and women's category on the evening:
- Men's Ballon d'Or: Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and Marc Cucurella
- Yashin Trophy (Best Men's Goalkeeper): Thibaut Courtois
- Kopa Trophy (Best Under-21 Player): Yan Diomande
- Women's Young Talent: Felicia Schröder
The decision brings a diplomatic close to the bitter dispute that began in October 2024, when Madrid staged an eleventh-hour walkout after learning that Vinícius Júnior had been overlooked for the main prize in favour of Manchester City midfielder Rodri. The club subsequently boycotted the ceremony entirely, declined all accompanying honours, and refused to send a delegation to the Parisian gala for the following two years.
With relations now formally thawed, Madrid's star-studded contingent will once again walk the red carpet tonight as contenders across the podium.
