The 2024 Ballon d’Or is fast approaching, with football’s brightest talents competing for the sport’s most prestigious individual accolade.
This year’s competition is particularly open, as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have dominated the award for over a decade, are absent from the shortlist.
Messi, a record eight-time winner, and Ronaldo, with five wins, have not made the cut, setting the stage for a new name to claim the prize.
PUNCH Online highlights all you need to know about this year’s ceremony.
When and Where Is the 2024 Ballon d’Or Ceremony?
The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner will be announced on Monday, 28th October, at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. The ceremony will mark the 68th edition of the award, with France Football continuing to manage the voting system alongside UEFA’s co-organisation this year.
Football fans can tune in to the live broadcast of the ceremony, which will begin at 19:00 GMT, and catch all the action as the winner is revealed.
The Favourites for the 2024 Ballon d’Or
This year’s Ballon d’Or race promises fierce competition. Vinicius Junior has emerged as the current frontrunner. The Brazilian forward was instrumental in Real Madrid’s success last season, including their Champions League victory. With his impressive performances, he has positioned himself as a strong candidate for the men’s award.
Another top contender is Rodri, who played a key role in Manchester City’s Premier League triumph and was named Player of the Tournament in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory. He joins the shortlist alongside his Real Madrid counterpart, Jude Bellingham, who also made a strong case for the award with consistent displays in midfield.
Meanwhile, Dani Carvajal is considered an outside chance, with the right-back playing a vital role in winning the Champions League, La Liga, and Euro 2024. While his victory might be a surprise, his achievements have earned him a spot among the nominees.
Who Will Win the Ballon d’Or Féminin 2024?
In the women’s category, Aitana Bonmatí is heavily favoured to secure back-to-back wins for the Ballon d’Or Féminin. The Barcelona midfielder is considered the top candidate, building on her club and international success. Close behind her in the race are Caroline Graham Hansen, Bonmatí’s teammate at Barcelona, and Kadidiatou Diani of Lyon.
Kopa Trophy: Youth Stars in the Spotlight
The Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best player under 21, will also be presented during the ceremony. Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal is widely expected to take home this honour, following his standout performances that helped Spain secure victory in the European Championship.
Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo, both of Manchester United, are also among the 10-player shortlist for the youth award, but it would be a major upset if Yamal were not to win.
Yashin Trophy: Best Goalkeeper Award
The 2024 Yashin Trophy will recognise the world’s top goalkeeper, with Emiliano Martínez among the favourites. The Aston Villa shot-stopper is in the running for successive wins, having helped his club achieve Champions League qualification and contributed to Argentina’s Copa América triumph this summer.
Gianluigi Donnarumma, another former winner, is also on the shortlist, though there is no place for Alisson or Thibaut Courtois this time around.
How to Watch the 2024 Ballon d’Or Ceremony
Fans eager to watch the drama unfold can catch the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony live on L’Équipe’s YouTube channel, which will stream the event for free.