Forget Lionel Messi, it was all about Homare Sawa’s kimono (traditional Japanese costume) at the FIFA Ballon D’or awards in Zurich last night! The captain of the Japanese women’s team and winner of the FIFA Women’s Ballon d’Or lit up the stage with that outfit which should make her countrymen and women extremely proud today. Even Leo couldn’t resist a wink!
Predictably, Messi picked up the award for the third time in a row (cue the violins) while Xavi was, once again, resigned to position of Best Man. Eso está bien because Xavi’s skills are still out of this world!
Neymar picked up the FIFA Puskas Award, a new entree this year specially given to the ‘Best Goal’. Parabens... cara! Although he obviously forgot to style his hair, he said in true carioca spirit : “I am so happy to be part of this party and to be competing with these two great players. I’m very grateful to God and to all you. Enjoy this party.” And by party, he means the funk party waiting for him back home!
Pep Guardiola, as expected, also won the FIFA Coach of the Year and graciously shared it with his fellow nominees. “I would like to share this award with Mr. Mourinho and Sir Alex Ferguson. I would also like to thank all the people who, through the years, have helped build the magnificent, unbelievable club that is Barcelona.”
But the night wasn’t all about Messi.. although he is still inevitably, the star of world football (his parents and Antonella were present – see photos below). FIFA gave out awards to the “FIFPRO World XI” as well, made up of some of the outstanding talent today, which also included Wayne Rooney and Nemanja Vidic. Unfortunately, Real Madrid’s players were not present at the ceremony due to ‘Copa del Ray’ obligations, which we suspect has really nothing to do with the overall scheme of things – Mourinho has not been happy with UEFA and FIFA lately and sitting at an awards ceremony where you probably won’t win anything is too much for him to handle!
Sir Alex Ferguson also picked up the FIFA Presidential Award for his 25-years at Manchester United, which is fitting for his outstanding service to the club.
2011 ‘dream team’ - Iker Casillas; Daniel Alves, Gerard Pique, Sergio Ramos, Nemanja Vidic; Andres Iniesta, Xabi Alonso, Xavi; Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney
Of course, there was also some much-needed red carpet glamour from the current ‘IT’ couple of football… Piqueira (Shakira and Barca’s Gerard Pique).
Shakira presented an award and channeled her inner Marilyn Monroe at the event in a fantastic red dress. In case you forgot, this is the Oscar equivalent of Football, so glamour is absolutely necessary.
Next year, Bounty Blatter’s boardroom just needs to bring in a troupe of fire-eaters and air-flown pizza from Napoli for the cold media, per favore!
We’re also proud to say that last night’s female presenter – Kay Murray – is one of Futbolita’s dear friends and as expected, she rocked the stage and looked absolutely stunning! Way to go, Kay!
Photos via Reuters & Wire Images
