Ballon d’Or 2024: The Race for Football’s Prestigious Honors

The anticipation surrounding the 2024 Ballon d'Or ceremony is reaching a fever pitch as the world of football prepares to honor its most outstanding talents on October 28. This year’s event, held at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, marks a significant departure from tradition, as for the first time in 21 years, neither Cristiano Ronaldo nor Lionel Messi have been nominated in the men’s category. These two legends have collectively claimed the coveted prize 13 times.

This year, prominent names in contention include English midfielder Jude Bellingham, Spanish star Rodri, and Brazilian winger Vinicius Junior. Bellingham, who has had a remarkable first season at Real Madrid, was instrumental in the club’s UEFA Champions League triumph and their La Liga and Spanish Supercup successes. The 21-year-old also shone on the international stage, contributing to England‘s runner-up finish at Euro 2024 with crucial goals.

Rodri, another strong contender, bolstered his chances by playing a pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, where he was named Player of the Tournament. The Manchester City midfielder also enjoyed success at the club level with Premier League and Club World Cup victories.

Meanwhile, Vinicius Junior has emerged as a key figure for Real Madrid, netting 24 goals across all competitions last season, including a decisive score in the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund.

In the women’s category, the nominees include Spanish midfield maestro Aitana Bonmati, rising star Salma Paralluelo, and the accomplished Norwegian forward Ada Hegerberg. Bonmati, who has already been awarded the Ballon d’Or Feminin, played a vital role in Spain’s international achievements and delivered stellar performances for FC Barcelona.

The Ballon d’Or event will also recognize young talent with the Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best men’s player under 21, and the Yashin Trophy, honoring the best goalkeeper of the year. In addition, for the first time, the ceremony will feature awards for both men’s and women’s coaches of the year.

As the football world awaits the announcement of the winners, the ceremony will be streamed live on L'Equipe‘s channel, allowing fans across the globe to witness the crowning of the sport’s finest athletes in Paris.