Ballon d’Or organizers have firmly stated that the identity of the 2024 winner remains a mystery to everyone, including players and clubs. All nominees are equally in the dark, and the award’s confidentiality has been strictly maintained.
A source close to the Ballon d’Or shared with AFP, “All the clubs and players are in the same boat,” confirming that no one has insider knowledge ahead of the official announcement.
This comes amidst rumors that Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior and his team may skip the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony, sparking intrigue just hours before the prestigious event.
Set to be held on Monday night at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, the Ballon d’Or ceremony will crown this year’s top player, with elite contenders like Vinicius Junior, Manchester City’s Rodri, Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham, and PSG’s Kylian Mbappe vying for the title.
Initially, Vinicius was considered a strong favorite to take home the trophy, but recent speculation has suggested Manchester City’s Rodri may emerge as the victor instead. Reports from Fabrice Hawkins of RMC Sport indicate that Vinicius’s team has tempered expectations, with a shift in confidence about his chances. Within Real Madrid, there’s also a growing belief that the award may not go to their young star.
In an unexpected twist, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano shared on social media that Real Madrid has decided against sending a delegation to the Paris event, adding a new layer to the unfolding suspense surrounding this year’s Ballon d’Or.
