The race for the Ballon d’Or 2025 is heating up as the football world eagerly awaits the crowning of the best player of the year. With standout performances across Europe and international tournaments, the list of potential winners is more competitive than ever. Let’s dive into the latest updates, shortlist, award ceremony date, and top contenders.
Ballon d’Or 2025 Ceremony: Date and Venue
France Football, the organizer of the prestigious Ballon d’Or award, has confirmed that the Ballon d’Or 2025 ceremony will take place on October 27, 2025, in Paris, France. The Théâtre du Châtelet is expected to host the event once again, welcoming football’s biggest stars, coaches, and celebrities.
Ballon d’Or 2025 Shortlist (Unofficial)
While the official shortlist will be released by France Football in early September, here are the top contenders likely to feature, based on performances from the 2024–25 season and international campaigns:
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Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid / France)
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Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid / England)
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Vinícius Jr. (Real Madrid / Brazil)
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Erling Haaland (Manchester City / Norway)
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Lionel Messi (Inter Miami / Argentina)
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Harry Kane (Bayern Munich / England)
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Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City / Belgium)
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Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen / Germany)
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Bukayo Saka (Arsenal / England)
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Lamine Yamal (Barcelona / Spain)
Who’s Leading the Race?
1. Kylian Mbappé
Now at Real Madrid, Mbappé’s impact has been immediate. His Champions League performances and strong Euro 2024 showing make him a top favorite.
2. Jude Bellingham
Still only 22, Bellingham has become the heartbeat of Real Madrid and England. His leadership and goal contributions could earn him a maiden Ballon d’Or.
3. Vinícius Jr.
A key figure in Real Madrid’s attack, Vinícius Jr. has grown into one of the world’s most consistent wingers. If Madrid wins La Liga and the UCL, he’s in contention.
Could Messi Win Another Ballon d’Or?
Despite playing in MLS with Inter Miami, Lionel Messi remains a fan favorite. If he continues to perform at a high level and leads Argentina to Copa América success, he might pull off a shock win—his 9th Ballon d’Or.
Outside Bets and Rising Stars
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Lamine Yamal – The 17-year-old Barcelona prodigy dazzled at Euro 2024 with Spain, helping them reach the final.
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Florian Wirtz – Instrumental in Bayer Leverkusen’s Bundesliga title and Germany’s Euro 2024 semifinal run.
Ballon d’Or Féminin 2025: Women’s Award
The women’s shortlist will also be hotly debated. Early favorites include:
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Aitana Bonmatí (Barcelona / Spain)
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Sam Kerr (Chelsea / Australia)
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Lauren James (Chelsea / England)
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Alexia Putellas (Barcelona / Spain)
Bonmatí, the reigning holder, could secure back-to-back wins if Barcelona’s dominance continues.
Selection Criteria
The Ballon d’Or winner is chosen by a panel of international journalists who evaluate players on:
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Individual performance
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Team achievements
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Sportsmanship
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Career trajectory
Global Reactions & Expectations
Football fans around the globe are already debating who deserves the honor this year. Social media polls show Mbappé and Bellingham leading fan votes, but the final result often depends on both club and international success.
Trending Tweet:
“Bellingham deserves the Ballon d’Or. Carrying both Madrid and England this year. #BallonDor2025”
Final Thoughts
The Ballon d’Or 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. Whether it’s the rise of young stars or the legacy of veterans like Messi, this year’s award will reflect the shifting dynamics of world football.
Fans should stay tuned for the official shortlist in September and prepare for a thrilling awards night on October 27, 2025.
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