The upcoming Ballon d’Or 2025 ceremony is generating considerable excitement among soccer fans and analysts alike, with numerous star players in contention for the prestigious award. Set to take place on September 22, 2025, at the magnificent Théatre du Châtelet in Paris, this year’s event promises to feature a mix of established legends and emerging talents.
The Ballon d’Or, awarded annually by France Football since 1956, recognizes excellence in soccer based on three main criteria: individual performance, team success, and character and fair play. This year, the list of potential nominees includes names like Mohamed Salah of Liverpool, Ousmane Dembele of Paris Saint-Germain, and Barcelona’s prodigious talent Lamine Yamal, who at just 17 years old, is a strong contender for being the youngest player ever to win the award.
Current power rankings suggest that top contenders could range from established stars like Kylian Mbappe and Harry Kane to rising talents like Jude Bellingham and Barcelona’s Pedri. The impact of major matches, particularly the Champions League final on May 31, will influence the final list of nominees, scheduled for release around early August.
Highlighting the importance of this award, Argentine legend Lionel Messi holds the record with eight wins, while Cristiano Ronaldo follows with five victories and a record number of nominations. The awards not only honor individual brilliance but also showcase talents across multiple categories, including the women’s division and various trophies for young players, goalkeepers, and coaches.
As the soccer community gears up for this prestigious event, anticipation grows around who will ultimately take home the Ballon d’Or in 2025. With a rich pool of talent, this year’s nominees promise to make for a thrilling award season, celebrating the sport’s incredible achievements and stories.