Brazilian government responds to Vinicius’ Ballon d’Or loss

The Brazilian Ministry of Youth and Sports has offered great support to Vinicius Junior after he lost out to Rodri for the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

“You are a true giant and have entered the history of football,” the ministry wrote in an official statement.

“You have not only entered history for your incredible skills on the pitch, but for your tireless fight against racism,” the statement added.

The Brazilian government was not the only one to support Vinicius after the Ballon d’Or surprise, as several Brazilian athletes joined in attacking the Ballon d’Or officials.

The most prominent critics were Tottenham star Richarlison and Brazilian women’s football legend Marta, as well as Flamengo, the club where Vinicius began his career.

“We are proud of how he has evolved and become a reference on and off the pitch,” Flamengo wrote in a lengthy statement.

“If the award does not come from those who voted for these awards, it will come from those who know you are the best,” the statement concluded.