The Ballon d’Or 2025 is one of the most anticipated events in the football calendar, celebrating the world’s best players for their performances across domestic leagues, international tournaments, and continental competitions. As the year progresses, fans around the world are already speculating who will take home the most prestigious individual award in football.
The Ballon d’Or 2025 ceremony is expected to take place in late October 2025 in Paris, France, continuing the long-standing tradition established by France Football. This article explores everything you need to know about the award — including the confirmed date window, predictions for winners, the nomination process, historical context, recent trends, and what to expect from the 2025 edition.
Understanding the Ballon d’Or
What is the Ballon d’Or?
The Ballon d’Or is an annual football award presented by France Football magazine to the best male and female football players in the world. Established in 1956, it has evolved into one of the sport’s most respected accolades, symbolising global recognition of excellence on and off the pitch.
The award was historically given to the best European player until it expanded in 1995 to include players from all nationalities playing for European clubs. In 2010, it briefly merged with FIFA’s World Player of the Year to form the FIFA Ballon d’Or, but in 2016 the partnership ended, restoring it to its original France Football format.
The Modern Criteria
Today, the Ballon d’Or is awarded based on three main criteria:
Individual and team performances during the year.
Player talent, sportsmanship, and overall influence on the game.
Career achievements (used in tie-breaking situations).
Voting is conducted by international journalists, national team captains, and coaches, ensuring a broad and fair assessment of player excellence.
When Is the Ballon d’Or 2025 Ceremony?
Although France Football has yet to release the official date as of November 2025, industry insiders and past scheduling patterns suggest the Ballon d’Or 2025 ceremony will be held on Monday, 27 October 2025, at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, the traditional venue since 2019.
This expected date aligns with previous editions:
Ballon d’Or 2024: October 28, 2024
Ballon d’Or 2023: October 30, 2023
Ballon d’Or 2022: October 17, 2022
The ceremony will be broadcast globally, with live coverage available through major networks such as L’Équipe TV, BBC Sport, CBS Sports, and social media platforms. The event typically begins at 8:00 PM CET (7:00 PM BST).
How Players Are Selected
Nomination and Voting Process
Each year, France Football releases a shortlist of 30 male and 20 female nominees, usually announced in early September. The nominees are chosen by the publication’s editorial team based on performances between August 2024 and July 2025, corresponding with the European football season.
The voting panel includes one journalist from each of the top 100 FIFA-ranked countries for the men’s award and 50 for the women’s award. Voters select their top five choices, awarding points in descending order (6, 4, 3, 2, and 1). The player with the highest total points wins.
New Changes in Voting Rules (2025)
For 2025, France Football has reinforced transparency rules to prevent bias:
Votes from each journalist will be made publicly available post-ceremony.
Performance evaluation focuses solely on the football season rather than the calendar year.
Greater emphasis is placed on team achievements, aligning the award closer with actual on-field contributions.
Predicted Favourites for the Ballon d’Or 2025
As of late 2025, several names dominate the conversation for both the men’s and women’s categories. These predictions are based on recent club performances, international success, and fan sentiment.
Men’s Ballon d’Or 2025 Contenders
Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid, France)
After a historic 2024–25 season with Real Madrid, Mbappé remains the frontrunner. His Champions League heroics and Euro 2024 semi-final performance have strengthened his claim. With 38 goals and 15 assists across all competitions, his dominance is unparalleled.
Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid, England)
Bellingham’s rise continues as he establishes himself as one of football’s brightest young midfielders. His control, maturity, and consistent performances in La Liga and Europe have made him a top-three favourite for the award.
Erling Haaland (Manchester City, Norway)
Despite Manchester City’s trophy struggles, Haaland’s goal-scoring statistics are phenomenal, with 42 goals in the 2024–25 season. His efficiency and consistency keep him in contention.
Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid, Brazil)
Vinícius’s creativity and flair have been instrumental for Real Madrid. His Ballon d’Or campaign gained traction after winning the La Liga MVP award and contributing decisively in European fixtures.
Lionel Messi (Inter Miami, Argentina)
Even in the twilight of his career, Messi’s influence in Major League Soccer and Copa América 2024 was immense. Many fans hope for a farewell podium appearance, though competition is fierce.
Women’s Ballon d’Or 2025 Contenders
Aitana Bonmatí (Barcelona, Spain)
The reigning 2023 and 2024 Ballon d’Or Féminin winner continues to dominate women’s football with technical brilliance and leadership.
Sam Kerr (Chelsea, Australia)
Kerr’s consistent performances and crucial goals in both the Women’s Super League and international fixtures place her among the top contenders.
Alexia Putellas (Barcelona, Spain)
Returning to full form after injury, Putellas has once again showcased her midfield genius, leading Barcelona to continental success.
Sophia Smith (Portland Thorns, USA)
The American forward’s outstanding NWSL season and international form have made her a dark horse candidate.
Recent Trends in Ballon d’Or Voting (2023–2025)
Over the past few years, the Ballon d’Or has undergone significant evolution in terms of criteria and perception.
1. Rise of Midfielders and Playmakers
While strikers dominated previous decades, midfielders like Luka Modrić, Kevin De Bruyne, and Jude Bellingham have redefined the award’s balance, highlighting all-around contribution over goal tally.
2. Increasing Female Recognition
The women’s Ballon d’Or Féminin, introduced in 2018, continues to grow in global prominence. Viewership for the 2024 ceremony hit 25 million worldwide, a record according to L’Équipe.
3. Shift from Legacy Votes
Older players like Messi and Ronaldo are gradually giving way to younger stars, symbolising a new football generation focused on pace, analytics, and versatility.
4. Influence of Data Analytics
Advanced metrics like Expected Goals (xG), Progressive Passes, and Defensive Actions are now considered in voter analysis, showing how modern football embraces data science.
5. Social Media and Fan Impact
Platforms like X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and TikTok have amplified fan influence. Hashtags such as #BallonDor2025 and #MbappevsBellingham trend months before the event, shaping global narratives.
Real-Life Examples: Players Making History
Kylian Mbappé’s Record-Breaking Year
Mbappé’s 2025 campaign has been extraordinary, marked by a UEFA Champions League top scorer title and leading France to a Euro 2024 semi-final. According to Opta, his shot conversion rate (24%) and dribble success rate (64%) are the highest among top European forwards.
Jude Bellingham’s Transformation
At only 22, Bellingham has become Real Madrid’s heartbeat. His goal contributions from midfield and leadership qualities have drawn comparisons to Steven Gerrard and Zinedine Zidane. His influence extends beyond goals — his 2.6 key passes per game and pressing efficiency have revolutionised Real’s tempo.
Aitana Bonmatí’s Dominance
In women’s football, Bonmatí’s continued excellence has drawn universal praise. She led Barcelona to another UEFA Women’s Champions League triumph and Spain to World Cup success, earning widespread support for a third consecutive Ballon d’Or Féminin.
Expert Opinions and Media Coverage
Football analysts and former professionals have weighed in on the 2025 race.
Former Ballon d’Or winner Luka Modrić told Marca, “Mbappé’s consistency and leadership at Real Madrid make him the logical favourite.”
ESPN’s Gab Marcotti argues that Bellingham’s all-round play could win over traditional voters who value influence beyond statistics.
Meanwhile, UEFA.com’s experts emphasise that the gap between men’s and women’s football recognition is narrowing rapidly, symbolising positive change in global football culture.
Practical Tips for Fans Following the 2025 Ballon d’Or
How to Watch the Event
Fans can stream the Ballon d’Or ceremony live on France Football’s official YouTube channel and sports broadcasters such as ESPN, BBC, and CBS Sports. Social media updates are available via L’Équipe and FIFA’s official accounts.
Where to Find Real-Time Voting Updates
While live results are kept confidential until the ceremony, leaks often appear in the final 48 hours through verified French media outlets and journalists close to France Football.
How to Track Player Stats
Platforms like SofaScore, WhoScored, and FBref offer season-long performance analytics. Fans can use these to follow contenders’ progress and understand why certain players lead in the rankings.
What Makes the Ballon d’Or 2025 Unique
The 2025 edition represents a transition in global football culture. With Messi and Ronaldo’s era closing and the new wave of Mbappé, Haaland, and Bellingham rising, this year’s Ballon d’Or will likely mark a generational shift.
Moreover, with expanded viewership and gender equality in awards, the event has transcended sport, becoming a cultural celebration of global athletic excellence.
FAQs
When will the Ballon d’Or 2025 ceremony take place?
The Ballon d’Or 2025 is expected to be held on Monday, 27 October 2025, at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, France.
Who are the top contenders for the 2025 Ballon d’Or?
Leading favourites include Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland, and Aitana Bonmatí in the women’s category.
How is the Ballon d’Or winner decided?
Winners are selected by an international panel of journalists who vote based on performance, team success, and sportsmanship during the season.
Where can fans watch the Ballon d’Or 2025 ceremony?
Fans can stream it live via France Football’s YouTube channel or tune in on networks like BBC Sport, ESPN, and CBS Sports.
What makes the 2025 edition special?
The 2025 Ballon d’Or symbolises a generational change, with younger stars taking centre stage in both men’s and women’s football.
To Conclude
The Ballon d’Or 2025 promises to be one of the most exciting and competitive editions in years. As football evolves, so does its most cherished award — now reflecting data analytics, gender balance, and global diversity. With icons like Mbappé and Bellingham vying for supremacy, and stars like Bonmatí continuing to set new benchmarks, fans are in for an unforgettable celebration of football’s finest talents.
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