Javier Tebas, the president of Spain's Professional Football League (LFP), took a jab at Real Madrid for boycotting the Ballon d'Or ceremony after finding out Vinícius wasn’t the winner. He accused the club of showing "a lack of class." “They should’ve shown up to the ceremony instead of questioning France Football’s process, which is transparent with 100 journalists voting. Real Madrid’s victim complex is just over the top,” Tebas told L'Équipe in an interview.

The LFP boss commented on Real Madrid’s current outlook: “I don’t know where they’re headed. They’re lacking class, and we see this in Spain too." Tebas, a Madrid fan himself, added, “Key values of the club are to act like a gentleman and shake hands when you lose. But for a while now, I think Madrid has lost that attitude.”

Real Madrid decided last-minute to cancel their trip to Paris for the Ballon d’Or ceremony once they knew Vinícius wouldn’t win. Spanish player Rodri from Manchester City ended up taking home the prestigious award, 64 years after Luis Suárez, the last Spaniard to win it.

Real Madrid still snagged some recognition at the Ballon d'Or: they were named the best club of last season, Carlo Ancelotti was awarded top coach, and Kylian Mbappé and Harry Kane tied for top scorer. Despite these awards, no one from the club attended. Also, three Madrid players made the top four: Vinícius, Jude Bellingham, and Dani Carvajal.