Cristiano Ronaldo accused of a scam ahead of the 2026 Ballon d'Or
In two days, the identity of the 2026 Ballon d’Or will finally be revealed, a highly anticipated verdict as the favourites are numerous and the result remains undecided. This anticipation contrasts with the disillusionment that has taken hold on social media, where Cristiano Ronaldo’s supporters denounce a possible scam.
Popular vote for the BOAT
An online vote was launched to elect the BOAT, the best Ballon d’Or of all time among laureates who have won the trophy at least twice. The poll, organized by the award’s governing body, attracted many participants seeking to support their favourite champion. Votes were collected up to the day before the ceremony, reinforcing the impression of massive participation.
France Football provided clarifications on this title, stating that it will not be a new version of the Super Ballon d’Or awarded to Alfredo Di Stefano in 1989. The BOAT will therefore remain purely symbolic, without a physical trophy or official reward at the ceremony. The organizers stress the purely honorary nature of the BOAT, to avoid any confusion with the official Ballon d’Or.
“The BOAT is exclusively a popular vote intended to celebrate supporters’ passion. It is neither a physical trophy nor an official reward of our ceremony,” explains a statement from the organizer.
Fans of “CR7”, mobilised en masse to place the Portuguese at the top of the votes, expressed their anger after learning that the Al‑Nassr striker, 41 years old, would not be rewarded on Monday evening in London. Some labelled the situation a scandal on the platform X. Supporters also pointed out that the player received no physical distinction, which fuels the sense of injustice.
Scam accusations and calls for justice
Users denounced the fact that the details of the paid vote had not been specified, recalling that an official organisation had charged €1 to participate. “An official organisation launched a prize charged €1 to participate, and when Cristiano Ronaldo started winning, (…) they changed it to call it an unofficial prize. All those who made a donation should sue them,” said the protestors. Another commentator described the practice as “absolute theft,” questioning the transparency of the fund collection.
This controversy shows how the initial enthusiasm around the 2026 Ballon d’Or ran into unmet expectations, turning excitement into mistrust. The debate suggests increased vigilance from supporters in future popular vote initiatives.