Spanish newspaper El Confidencial reported on a controversial audio conversation between former Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos and Spanish Football Association president Luis Rubiales regarding the 2020 Ballon d’Or.
Ramos asked Rubiales for his support to win the Ballon d’Or in 2020, according to a leaked entry posted on the newspaper’s website. In the audio recording, Rams says, “You know, I never asked you for anything, but if I want to do it today, because I think this year has been special in terms of my performances.” Addressing Rubiales, Ramos added: “I want you to help me in any way possible and use your contacts at (UEFA) to support my candidacy and win the award.”
Ramos concluded his conversation with Rubiales by saying, “I will be grateful to you all my life. Receiving the award is not only for me, but because I think that Spanish football deserves it, ”according to the British newspaper Daily Mail.
It is worth noting that the 2020 Ballon d’Or has been canceled due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic sweeping the world. Ramos moved to Paris Saint-Germain from last July until June 2023, after winning the Champions League four times with Real Madrid, the 2010 World Cup and the European Cup twice with his country. Since joining the French league, Ramos has been plagued with shin problems and injuries, forcing him to leave the team for the first five months of the season.