Boycott over! Real Madrid set for huge Ballon d'Or return after two-year absence

Real Madrid are ready to turn the page on their Ballon d'Or feud.

Details: According to L'Équipe, Real Madrid have ended their boycott of the Ballon d'Or ceremony and are expected to make a major return to the event on Monday, October 26. The Spanish giants are reportedly preparing to send a large delegation to London, including several players nominated for individual awards.

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The decision marks a dramatic change in the club's stance after two consecutive ceremonies without an official Real Madrid delegation. The conflict began in 2024, when the club cancelled its trip after learning that Vinícius Júnior would not win the men's Ballon d'Or.

Real Madrid also stayed away from the 2025 gala, extending the public breakdown in relations with the organisers. This year, however, the club had already shown signs of a different approach by publicly acknowledging its nominees on its official channels.

The 2026 ceremony will be held at the London Palladium and will begin at 20:00 GMT. It is the 70th edition of the Ballon d'Or and the first ceremony to take place in London.

It is worth noting that Real Madrid have four players among the 30 nominees for the men's Ballon d'Or: Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham and Marc Cucurella.

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