Spanish media slam 'masquerade' of Real Madrid's Ballon d'Or boycott
MADRID — Spanish media said on Tuesday that Real Madrid had cheapened itself by boycotting the Ballon d'Or ceremony, with even the normally loyal Marca weighing in, while Spain's national coach admitted it was "not good for football".
The European champion announced its decision to skip Monday night's gala ceremony in Paris just hours before it took place after apparently learning that its Brazilian striker Vinicius Junior had not won the men's award.
"This masquerade is unworthy of the greatest club in the world," said Marca, which is normally staunchly pro-Real, in an editorial, adding that the club had ignored its own mantra that calls on its players "to shake hands even when you lose".
