(VIDEO) Fans booed Emiliano Martinez on the red carpet

Today, October 28, one of the year’s marquee events is underway—the 2024 Ballon d'Or ceremony. As the ceremony’s main figures graced the red carpet, an unexpected moment unfolded.

Details: Aston Villa and Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez secured 18th place in the 2024 Ballon d'Or voting and is also a top contender for the Yashin Trophy, awarded to the season’s best goalkeeper.

However, as Martínez and his wife stepped out of their car, they were met with a loud chorus of boos from the crowd.

The reason? The ceremony is being held in Paris, where local fans still harbor resentment toward Martínez for his behavior in the 2022 World Cup final, where France suffered a penalty shootout defeat.

• Read also: All Ballon d'Or 2024 results (UPDATED)

Reminder: Previously, Vinícius Júnior was considered the favorite to win the 2024 Ballon d'Or, but it has since emerged that Manchester City’s central midfielder Rodri is expected to claim the award. This revelation prompted Real Madrid’s entire delegation to forgo the trip to Paris.