The 24-year-old Brazilian forward Vinicius led Real Madrid in scoring during the previous season as the Spanish powerhouses won both La Liga and the Champions League.
In addition to winning the Premier League, Uefa Super Cup, and Club World Cup with Manchester City, Spain player Rodri assisted his nation in winning Euro 2024 in July.
Vinicius and representatives from his team were not present when Rodri received the accolade in Paris on Monday.
“A lost chance”
Some Brazilian news analysts concluded that the decision was the most contentious in the award’s history, calling it an unfair and vindictive action.
Numerous people asserted that the Real Madrid player’s position on racism in Spain was the reason he was not given the prize.
Guga Chacra, a commentator for the top TV news network, stated, “We are aware that Vinicius is the target of racism in Spanish football and other parts of Europe, and he actively fights against racism.”
This makes us wonder if racism and prejudice toward Vinicius had an impact on the outcome that gave Rodri the victory.
The biggest injustice in Ballon d’Or history was Vincius’ [handling], according to Gustavo Faldon, sports editor for the Brazilian daily Estadao.
