Ballon d'Or 2025 – Who’s Set to Lift Football’s Biggest Prize?

Every December the world pauses to ask one simple question: who is the best footballer of the year? The answer comes in the form of the Ballon d'Or, a trophy that has turned legend‑making performances into silverware since 1956. 2025 feels different, though – new stars have burst onto the scene, old giants are still shining, and the voting system now includes more fan input than ever.

What the Ballon d'Or 2025 is all about

The Ballon d'Or is handed out by France Football after a panel of journalists, national team coaches and captains, plus a growing share of fan votes, rank the year’s top players. The award isn’t just about goals; it weighs consistency, impact in big games, and how a player’s style has changed the sport. In 2025 the shortlist was announced in early October and includes 30 names across all positions.

Why does the shortlist matter? It narrows the conversation for fans, pundits and even the players themselves. When a name makes the cut, you’ll see it everywhere – on match‑day programmes, in social‑media memes, and in the headlines right up until the ceremony in early December.

Nominees, voting and when to watch

Here are the five heavy‑hitters most people are talking about:

• Kylian Mbappé – record‑breaking season with PSG, 32 league goals and a World Cup win.
• Luka Modrić – turned 40 but still dictating play for Real Madrid, plus a stellar Champions League run.
• Erling Haaland – smashed the Premier League scoring record with Manchester City.
• Jude Bellingham – two‑year‑old midfield maestro, already a captain for England and Real Madrid.
• Lionel Messi – despite a quieter club season, still the key driver for Inter Miami’s MLS surge.

Voting opens on November 1 and closes on November 20. Journalists get a weighted 40%, coaches and captains another 30%, and fans the remaining 30%. You can cast your vote on the official Ballon d’Or website – just log in, pick your top three, and you’re in.

Don’t forget to check back on December 5 when the live ceremony is streamed globally. The event mixes music, fashion and surprise performances, but the real highlight is the moment the winner walks up to receive the golden ball.

Want to stay ahead of the hype? Our site updates the odds, breaks down each nominee’s stats, and offers a quick guide on how your fan vote can sway the final tally. Bookmark the page, follow the live tweet feed, and join the conversation on social media using #BallonDor2025.

Whether you’re a die‑hard supporter of one of the listed stars or just love a good football drama, the Ballon d’Or 2025 promises excitement, debate, and a chance to see history made. Keep an eye on the shortlist, vote when you can, and get ready for the countdown to the night when the best player on the planet finally gets his moment in the spotlight.