The Spanish newspaper "El Confidencial" published an audio leak between former Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos and the president of the Spanish Football Association, Luis Rubiales, regarding the Golden Ball.
According to the audio leak, Ramos - who has never won the award before - asked Rubiales for his mediation to win the prestigious award in 2019.
Ramos, 36, said, "Ruby, good evening, I hope you and all your family are well, you know I didn't ask you anything, but what I'm asking today, because I think I gave an outstanding performance this year."
"I would like you to help me as much as possible and say a few words about this in the UEFA meetings and your private network in order to win the Ballon d'Or," added the former Real Madrid captain.
"I will be grateful to you for the rest of my life, not only for me, but also because I think Spanish football deserves this award," Ramos added.
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," he said.
And the “Spanish Hammer” replied again, “I know that it is not up to you, but the network of relations is an important factor, and do not forget also that FIFA (International Football Association) gives the award for the best, it is also an important award, and it will be a great step from you, and in general I count on your help Of course, we'll meet at your convenient time, and we'll have lunch together."
It is noteworthy that Lionel Messi won the Ballon d'Or award that year (2019), the sixth in his career.