When the Ballon d’Or Will Be Announced: Everything You Need to Know
When the Ballon d’Or will be announced is the burning question for football fans worldwide. As the most prestigious individual award in football, the ceremony’s timing shapes debates, predictions, and global anticipation. In this guide, we’ll reveal the 2025 announcement date, analyze top contenders, unpack the voting process, and explore the award’s storied legacy.
1. 2025 Announcement Date & Ceremony Details
The Ballon d’Or ceremony traditionally occurs in late October or early November. For 2025, France Football (organizers) has confirmed the event will take place Monday, October 27, 2025, at Paris’ iconic Théâtre du Châtelet. Key timings:
- Red Carpet Arrivals: 6:30 PM CET
- Main Ceremony: 8:00 PM CET
- Winner Announcement: ~10:00 PM CET
Mark your calendars! Delays are rare but can happen due to global events (e.g., COVID-19 pushed 2020’s ceremony to 2021).
2. How Voting Works: Who Decides the Winner?
The winner is chosen through a rigorous process:
- Voters: 100+ international journalists (one per FIFA-ranked nation).
- Criteria: Player performance (August 2024–July 2025), team trophies, and individual impact.
- Key Dates:
- Voting Opens: September 1, 2025
- Voting Closes: September 29, 2025
- Shortlist Reveal: September 15, 2025
3. Top 2025 Contenders: Early Predictions
Based on the 2024/25 season, frontrunners include:
- Kylian Mbappé (PSG/France): 45 goals, Champions League title.
- Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid/England): La Liga MVP + UCL dominance.
- Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid/Brazil): AFCON 2025 win + 30+ goal contributions.
Wildcard: Erling Haaland (Man City/Norway) if he wins Euro 2025.
4. Historical Context: When Surprises Struck
- 2023 Messi Win: Record 8th Ballon d’Or after World Cup glory.
- 2022 Benzema Snub: Overcame 14-year drought despite UCL heroics.
- Timing Shifts: Pre-2010, winners were named in December; now October/November aligns with UEFA’s calendar.
5. How to Watch Live
- TV Broadcast: Sky Sports (UK), ESPN (US), beIN Sports (Global).
- Streaming: YouTube, France Football’s official site.
- Social Updates: Follow @francefootball for real-time leaks.
6. Why Timing Matters: Post-Season vs. Mid-Season Impact
Moving the ceremony to October:
- ✅ Pros: Judges assess a complete season (August–July).
- ❌ Cons: Early-season form (Aug–Oct) isn’t considered.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a Copa América/Euro 2025 winner sway votes?
A: Absolutely—major summer tournaments heavily influence voting (e.g., Messi’s 2021 Copa win).
Q: Has the date ever leaked early?
A: Rarely. France Football announces dates in July, but 2023’s venue was accidentally revealed via a deleted tweet.
Q: When will nominees be revealed?
A: The 30-player shortlist drops September 15, 2025.
Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide
When the Ballon d’Or will be announced (October 27, 2025!) is just the start. From Mbappé’s quest for a first win to Bellingham’s meteoric rise, this ceremony promises drama. Bookmark this page—we’ll update it with nominee leaks, voting news, and expert analysis as the date nears!
Engage With Us:
“Who’s your 2025 Ballon d’Or pick? Comment below! 🔥”