And the newspaper “El Confidencial” broadcast an audio leak of a conversation between Ramos and Luis Rubiales, president of the Spanish Football Federation, in which the Real Madrid defender requests his mediation to win the Golden Ball award in 2019.
Ramos said, according to the audio leak: “Ruby, good evening, I hope you are well with all your family members, you know that I didn’t ask you anything, but what I ask today, because I think I gave a special performance this year.”
The former Real Madrid captain added: “I would like you to help me as much as possible and say a few words about this in the UEFA meetings and your own network of contacts in order to win the Ballon d’Or.”
Ramos continued: “I will be grateful to you for the rest of my life, not only for me, but also because I believe that Spanish football deserves this award.”
Rubiales replied: “Hello Sergio, first of all I congratulate you on your excellent performance this year. I wish you success in the final stages of the Champions League.”
“Of course, it is not me who decides who wins the Ballon d’Or, but I will do everything I can.”
Sergio Ramos replied again: “I know that it is not up to you, but the network of relationships is an important factor, and do not forget also that FIFA gives the best award, it is also an important award, and it will be a great step from you, and in general I count on your help, and certainly we will meet at the right time for you And we’ll have lunch together.”
It is noteworthy that Lionel Messi won the Ballon d’Or that year (2019).