La Liga president Javier Tebas has publicly criticized Real Madrid, citing a “lack of chivalry” after the club skipped the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, where Manchester City’s Rodri was awarded the top honour. Speaking on the absence of Real Madrid representatives, Tebas remarked, “Real Madrid lacked the chivalry that has always been part of its anthem, shaking hands when they lose. It was a childish attitude.”
LALIGA president Javier Tebas said Real Madrid should've went to the Ballon d'Or ceremony and that their "victimhood is unnecessary and exaggerated" 😮 pic.twitter.com/V0Q9WQ9jmp
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) October 30, 2024
This comment follows Real Madrid’s decision to boycott the event, reportedly in protest over what the club saw as an unjust snub of their star player, Vinicius Junior. The club expressed concerns about the transparency of the selection process, feeling that Vinicius deserved higher recognition.
Tebas’ last criticism adds to other recent remarks linked to Real Madrid. Recently, he commented on the club’s official TV channel, saying, “Real Madrid TV videos against the referees do not reflect the elegance of Real Madrid. They broke it a long time ago. It is tiresome and repetitive. Even a Real Madrid fan with conscience says it.” This string of criticisms highlights the strained relations between La Liga’s leadership and one of its most high-profile clubs, adding further fuel to ongoing debates over officiating and sportsmanship within Spanish football.