The world’s top footballers are set to gather in Paris on Monday for the Ballon d’Or ceremony, with Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior seen as the frontrunner for the men’s prize and Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmati expected to secure her second consecutive women’s title.
This year’s shortlist marks the first since 2003 without either Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo, whose legendary careers dominated the award with 13 wins between them. Vinicius, who inherited Ronaldo’s number seven shirt at Real Madrid, has drawn praise for his role in Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League wins, and is widely seen as Messi’s successor for the award.
“Vinicius will win (the Ballon d’Or),” Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti stated, following the player’s recent hat-trick in a 5-2 Champions League victory over Borussia Dortmund. “And not because of the three goals but because of his character. He’s extraordinary.”
Vinicius’ six Champions League goals were critical to Madrid’s 15th title, including a standout brace in the semi-final and a goal in the final. The 24-year-old Brazilian also continues to lead in the fight against racism after facing repeated abuse in La Liga since his arrival in 2018. In a notable incident in May 2023, he confronted Valencia supporters after racial abuse, gaining global support.
Contenders for the men’s Ballon d’Or include Vinicius’ Real Madrid teammate Jude Bellingham, Manchester City’s Euro 2024-winning midfielder Rodri, and prolific scorers Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappe. Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal is also in the mix after securing a treble-winning season.
In the Women’s Ballon d’Or, Barcelona playmaker Bonmati is favoured to retain her crown following a remarkable season in which she led her team to their first-ever quadruple. Other nominees include Barcelona’s Caroline Graham Hansen and Salma Paralluelo, who are also seen as strong contenders.
The Ballon d’Or awards ceremony will take place in central Paris, with winners chosen by an international jury of football journalists.