The boycott is truly over! Real Madrid send two stars to London for Ballon d'Or
Real Madrid's return to the Ballon d'Or is becoming a reality! Two of the Spanish giants' nominated players are reportedly heading to London, marking another major step towards ending the club's long-running dispute with the organisers.
Details: According to journalist José Félix Díaz, Kylian Mbappé and Marc Cucurella will travel to London for the Ballon d'Or ceremony on Monday, October 26. The information, circulated by The Touchline, comes after reports that Real Madrid have decided to end their boycott of the prestigious event. Spanish newspaper AS has also reported that both players are expected to attend, alongside other representatives of the club.
Madrid's change of position represents an important development after two controversial editions. In 2024, the club withdrew its delegation following the decision not to award Vinícius Júnior the men's Ballon d'Or. The relationship remained strained in 2025, but recent discussions have reportedly helped repair relations between the Spanish giants and European football's governing institutions.
Mbappé arrives as one of the most prominent nominees following a remarkable individual campaign. The French striker scored 25 LaLiga goals and 15 in the Champions League during the 2025/26 season. He then added ten goals at the World Cup, winning the tournament's Golden Boot. Cucurella is also among the candidates after joining Madrid from Chelsea and contributing to Spain's World Cup triumph.
It's worth noting that four Real Madrid players are nominated for the men's Ballon d'Or: Mbappé, Cucurella, Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham. The ceremony will take place at London's Palladium Theatre on October 26, beginning at 20:00 GMT. Attendance does not reveal the voting results, and the winner will only be officially announced during the gala.
Reminder: Boycott over! Real Madrid set for huge Ballon d'Or return after two-year absence.
Miguel Solomons
Dailysports's expert
