2024 Ballon d’Or: Nominee Announcement Date, Top Contenders, and Ceremony Details

As the 2024 Ballon d’Or awards approach, the football world is eagerly anticipating the announcement of nominees and the ceremony itself. With the event just around the corner, fans are curious about who might take home the coveted prize this year, when the ceremony will be held, and if there are any new categories to look out for. Here's everything you need to know as football’s most glamorous night draws closer.

When Is the 2024 Ballon d’Or Ceremony?

The 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony is set to take place on Monday, October 28, in Paris, the city that has become synonymous with football’s most prestigious individual award. The event will bring together the sport’s biggest stars, all vying for the chance to have their names etched into footballing history.

When Are the 2024 Ballon d’Or Nominees Announced?

The nominees for the 2024 Ballon d’Or will be announced tomorrow, September 4. This announcement will reveal the footballers shortlisted for the prestigious awards, including the coveted Footballer of the Year title. With some of the biggest names in football on the list, the competition is expected to be fierce.

New Categories for the 2024 Ballon d’Or

The 2024 Ballon d’Or will introduce two new awards: Men’s Coach of the Year and Women’s Coach of the Year. These categories will recognize the tactical brilliance and leadership of football’s top managers, adding another layer of excitement to the event.

Who Are the Favourites for the Men’s Ballon d’Or?

01. Rodri (Manchester City)

• Country: Spain
• Achievements: Rodri has been a cornerstone of Manchester City’s midfield since 2019. His contributions last season, including 12 goals and 15 assists, were pivotal in City’s Premier League triumph, making him a top contender for the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

02. Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid)

• Country: Brazil
• Achievements: Vinicius Jr. has been in sensational form for Real Madrid, contributing 26 goals and 12 assists. His performances helped Real Madrid secure both the Champions League and La Liga titles, making him a strong candidate for the award.

03. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)

• Country: France
• Achievements: Mbappé’s move to Real Madrid came after a stellar season at Paris Saint-Germain, where he scored 52 goals. His exceptional form makes him one of the leading contenders for the Ballon d’Or.

04. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)

• Country: England
• Achievements: Bellingham has quickly established himself as one of the best midfielders in the world. His first season at Real Madrid, combined with his performances for England, has made him a serious contender for the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

05. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)

• Country: Spain
• Achievements: Yamal is a rising star at Barcelona, and while he may not win the Ballon d’Or this year, his performances suggest he will be a strong contender in the future.

Who Are the Favourites for the Women’s Ballon d’Or?

The Women’s Ballon d’Or, first introduced in 2018, continues to grow in prestige. This year, several top players are in the running for the award, with Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmati being one of the leading candidates.

01. Aitana Bonmati (Barcelona)

• Country: Spain
• Achievements: Bonmati was last year’s winner and is once again a favorite after leading Barcelona to another league title. Her 26 goals this season make her a strong contender for a consecutive Ballon d’Or win.

02. Lindsey Horan (Lyon)

• Country: USA
• Achievements: Horan has had a brilliant season, leading the USA to Olympic gold in Paris and helping Lyon secure both the Champions League and league titles. Her leadership and on-field performances make her a top candidate for the award.

03. Mallory Swanson (Chicago Red Stars)

• Country: USA
• Achievements: Despite returning from a knee injury, Swanson had a remarkable run in Paris, contributing four goals and two assists. Her comeback has made her a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or.

04. Sophia Smith (Portland Thorns)

• Country: USA
• Achievements: Smith has been a standout for both the US national team and the Portland Thorns, making her one of the top contenders for this year’s award.

05. Caroline Graham Hansen (Barcelona)

• Country: Norway
• Achievements: Hansen’s season at Barcelona has been outstanding, with 33 goals and 26 assists. She played a key role in Barcelona’s Champions League victory and is a strong candidate for the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

Conclusion: The 2024 Ballon d’Or promises to be an exciting event, with new categories and fresh faces vying for football’s most prestigious individual honors. As the nominees are announced and the ceremony approaches, fans around the world will be watching to see who will be crowned the best of the best. Whether it’s a familiar name or a rising star, the 2024 Ballon d’Or is set to be a night to remember.