With the 2024-25 season approaching its conclusion, the soccer world is already turning its attention to this year's Ballon d'Or ceremony.
Last year, Manchester City's Rodri claimed world soccer's most prestigious individual prize, edging out Real Madrid's Vinícius Jr. in a controversial decision that led the Brazilian winger and Los Blancos to boycott the award in protest.
Fortunately for Vinícius, Rodri won’t be lifting the Ballon d'Or for a second consecutive year, paving the way for the Brazilian to claim the honor for the first time in his career.
Unfortantely, however, he now faces even tougher competition from FC Barcelona duo Raphinha and Lamine Yamal, as well as Liverpool's Mohamed Salah—all three of whom are among the frontrunners for this year’s award.
When is the 2025 Ballon d'Or Ceremony?
The 68th edition of the Ballon d'Or will take place on Monday, Oct. 27, following the revised format that now aligns with full European seasons rather than the calendar year.
Although the ceremony will be held during the 2025-26 season, the award will honor the best player from the 2024-25 campaign.
In addition to the Ballon d'Or, the event will also celebrate the year's top female player, goalkeeper, goalscorer, and best player under the age of 21.
When are the nominations for the 2025 Ballon d'Or announced?
Before the grand ceremony where the Ballon d’Or winner is crowned, an initial shortlist of 30 nominees is compiled to highlight the contenders for the prestigious award.
For the 2024 edition, the shortlist was unveiled in early September, and a similar timeline is expected for this year’s announcement.
Where is the 2025 Ballon d'Or Ceremony?
The Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris will once again host the Ballon d’Or ceremony in 2025, continuing its tradition as the event’s venue since 2019. Before that, the prestigious awards were held at the Grand Palais, also in Paris.
The Théâtre du Châtelet is a theatre and opera house built in 1862. The venue has a capacity of just over 2,000 people.
When is the next Super Ballon d'Or?
The Super Ballon d'Or was a one-time award given out on Dec. 24, 1989, by France Football to honor the best player of the previous three decades.
The winner of the award was voted by a combination of viewers and readers, a panel of France Football judges, and former Ballon d'Or winners.
Real Madrid legend Alfredo Di Stéfano emerged as the winner, although he was closely followed by France icon Michel Platini.
Currently, there are no official plans to reintroduce the Super Ballon d'Or. However, speculation remains that it could be awarded again in 2029, marking 40 years since its first and only presentation.
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This article was originally published on www.si.com as 2025 Ballon d'Or Ceremony: When Is It and When Will the Nominees Be Revealed?.
