Ballon d’Or 2025: Organisers Outline Criteria Ahead of Paris Ceremony

The organisers of the prestigious Ballon d’Or award have released the three key criteria that will determine the winner of the 2025 edition, scheduled for Monday, September 22, in Paris.
France Football CEO, Vincent Garcia, who confirmed he is the only person aware of the eventual winner, explained that the award will be decided based on:
1. Individual performances – with emphasis on decisive and impressive displays, particularly in crucial moments.
2. Team achievements – recognising players who contributed significantly to their club or national team’s titles.
3. Fair play – honouring those who uphold class and good behaviour both on and off the pitch.
Garcia stressed that the Ballon d’Or is not only about skill and statistics but also about the spirit of the game. The clarification aims to give fans and analysts clearer insight into the decision-making process, as debates over potential winners intensify in the lead-up to the ceremony.
This year’s men’s award is expected to be closely contested, with Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembélé and Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal emerging as frontrunners. The 30-player shortlist includes the likes of Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé, Mohamed Salah, Vinícius Júnior and Virgil van Dijk.
The women’s nominees list also boasts a strong field, including Aitana Bonmatí, Alexia Putellas, Caroline Graham Hansen, Alessia Russo, Leah Williamson, Pernille Harder and Barbra Banda.
Manchester City midfielder Rodri is the current holder of the men’s Ballon d’Or, having edged Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior to the title last year.