Leaked audio of Sergio Ramos asking for help from the Spanish Football Federation to win the Ballon d’Or in 2020 has emerged.
According to Spanish news outlet Confidencial via Mundo Deportivo, the then Real Madrid captain Ramos was recorded having conversations with the head of Spanish FA Luis Rubiales.
During the pair’s conversation, Ramos was heard pleading his case to become the winner of the prestigious award and was openly asking for Rubiales’ support in his bid to become the first defender since Fabio Cannavaro to win the Ballon d'Or.
Ramos was heard saying to Rubiales: “You know that I've never asked you for anything but if I want to do it today it's because I think this has been a special year for the performances I've delivered.”
“I would like you to help me in whatever way you can and use your connections at UEFA linked to the Ballon d'Or.”
❗️ Sergio Ramos’ message in 2020 to Luis Rubiales has been leaked:
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) June 29, 2022
“Rubi, it was a special year for me. I would like you to help me as much as possible with the Ballon d’Or, with your contacts. I would appreciate it, not only for me, but for Spanish football.” @elconfidencial
“I would be grateful to you all my life, not only for me but also because I think Spanish football deserves it very much.”
The ‘special performances’ that the Spanish defender said was in reference to his efforts in helping Los Blancos to win the La Liga title that season.
In the midst of the covid pandemic, the season was halted in March and resumed in June 2020. And Madrid came back basking in great form.
Ramos and his team were on a run of 11 games unbeaten, including a 10 game win streak that ultimately secured the league title.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Rubiales gave a reply in which he told Ramos that he deserved to win the Ballon d’Or and wished the Madrid captain the best of luck for the upcoming Champions League campaign.
Rubiales also stated that while he has no power in deciding the winner of the award, he would be willing to help in any way he could.
⤵️ Luis Rubiales' answer to Sergio Ramos:
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) June 29, 2022
"Hello Sergio. I think it's a good year for you to get it. But of course, the Ballon d'Or isn't up to me, but whatever I can help you with, count on it." @elconfidencial
However, due to the ongoing pandemic, the 2020 edition of the Ballon d’Or was cancelled. Which for sure would have disappointed Ramos.
But no one would have been more disappointed than Bayern Munich’s Robert Lewandowski, who was the clear favourite to win the award that year after scoring more goals than anyone else in Europe, whilst his team won the most trophies, including the Champions League.
Ramos now plays for French champions Paris Saint Germain, but endured a difficult first season at the Parc des Princes after a season hit by multiple injuries.
Featured Image Credit: Alamy
Topics: Football, Sergio Ramos, Ballon d'Or, La Liga, Real Madrid
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