Ballon d'Or: Latest News, History and 2025 Predictions
If you love football, the Ballon d'Or is the trophy that sparks the biggest debates. It’s the award that crowns the world’s best player each year, and fans spend months arguing over who deserves it. Here at BassaNova we’re breaking down everything you need to know – from its origins to the 2025 race – so you can join the conversation with solid facts.
How the Ballon d'Or Works
The Ballon d'Or is voted on by journalists from around the globe. Each journalist picks their top five players, giving five points to their first choice, four to the second, and so on. The points are added up, and the player with the highest total wins. The criteria aren’t just goals – they look at overall impact, consistency, titles won and performances in big games.
Since 2010 the award has also partnered with France Football’s “Best Player” panel, which adds a small premium for players who excel in the UEFA Champions League or major international tournaments. That’s why you often see World Cup or Euro stars jump ahead in the final tally.
Past Winners and What Made Them Stand Out
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have dominated the last two decades, sharing the prize twelve times between them. Messi’s magical dribbling and record‑breaking goal numbers set him apart, while Ronaldo’s physicality, aerial ability and clutch performances in the Champions League gave him the edge in other years.
But the award isn’t a one‑man show. Players like Luka Modrić (2018) and Robert Lewandowski (2020) proved that a midfielder or striker can break the Messi‑Ronaldo duopoly by delivering consistent excellence in both club and country duties.
When you look at the winners list, you’ll notice a pattern: the champion usually has a major trophy in his cabinet that season – be it a league title, a Champions League win, or an international trophy.
That’s why the upcoming Ballon d’Or race is shaping up to be one of the most open in years. With the World Cup already behind us and the Champions League quarter‑finals heating up, several names are buzzing.
2025 Contenders – Who’s Got the Edge?
Enter Erling Haaland. The Norwegian striker smashed 30 goals for Manchester City last season, and his physical dominance makes him a fan favourite. If City reaches the Champions League final, his chances skyrocket.
Kylian Mbappé is another strong candidate. The French winger has already added a World Cup title to his résumé, and his speed plus goal‑scoring instincts put him in the conversation every year.
Don’t discount midfield maestros either. Kevin De Bruyne continues to dictate games for Manchester City, and his assist record could tip the scales if he adds a league crown.
One surprise that could shake things up is the rise of South American talent like Brazil’s Vinícius Júnior. If Real Madrid clinches both La Liga and the Champions League, his name could jump onto the shortlist.
How You Can Join the Ballon d'Or Conversation
While the official vote is limited to journalists, fans can still make noise on social media. Trending hashtags, polls on football forums and comment sections of major sports sites amplify a player’s popularity, which sometimes influences journalists subconsciously.
Follow the official France Football accounts for nomination lists, and keep an eye on the “shortlist” reveal – that’s when the real debate starts. Engage with other fans, share stats you think matter, and maybe you’ll spot a future winner nobody else mentioned.
At BassaNova we’ll keep updating the Ballon d’Or story as the season progresses. Bookmark this page, check back for the latest news, and stay ready to argue your pick when the final ceremony rolls around. After all, the excitement is part of what makes football the world’s game.
