The Ballon d’Or remains the most prestigious individual award in football, rewarding the player who has performed at the highest level throughout a calendar year. On 22 September 2025, the football world will gather to find out who will be crowned the best player on the planet. After a dramatic 2024–25 season filled with standout performances, there are several leading names in contention. Much like how sports fans follow updates and rankings across different platforms, from official football outlets to even non GamStop sites that cover betting insights, this preview takes a deep look at the possible winners, their achievements, and what might influence the final decision.
The Importance of the Ballon d’Or
First awarded in 1956, the Ballon d’Or has become the most respected individual honour in football. Organised by France Football, the award is decided by a panel of international journalists who evaluate players on their performances throughout the most recent season. Unlike team trophies, which reflect collective success, the Ballon d’Or focuses on individual excellence, consistency, and influence on the game. In today’s media landscape, football updates, transfer rumours, and even practical topics like SIM unlocking are widely accessible, showing how closely global sport is connected to everyday digital life.
Over the decades, the award has recognised legendary names such as George Best, Johan Cruyff, Allan Simonsen, and Marco van Basten, all of whom left lasting marks on football history. In more recent times, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have defined the modern era, dominating the award for more than a decade with their record-breaking achievements. Luka Modrić’s win in 2018 and Karim Benzema’s in 2022 proved that midfielders and forwards outside the Messi – Ronaldo rivalry could also claim the spotlight.
Messi currently holds the record with eight titles, while Ronaldo has five, creating a legacy that is unlikely to be matched soon. However, the football landscape is changing. With Messi now in the twilight of his career and Ronaldo no longer in Europe, the stage is open for a new generation. In 2025, attention has shifted to players like Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Erling Haaland, who are not just competing for trophies but also for the chance to define a new era in the Ballon d’Or story.
Key Factors in the 2025 Race
The Ballon d’Or is never just about statistics. Voters consider several elements when making their choice:
- Champions League Impact – Performances in Europe’s top competition usually carry the most weight. A player who dominates knockout matches often gains an edge.
- Domestic Success – League titles in La Liga, Premier League, or Bundesliga also matter, especially if the candidate was decisive during the season.
- International Tournaments – Euro 2024 and Copa América 2024 still influence the 2025 vote. Leading a national team to the latter stages is a huge boost.
- Consistency – Strong form across the whole year is more valuable than a short burst of brilliance.
- Big-Match Moments – Goals, assists, or decisive plays in finals and high-pressure matches leave lasting impressions.
- Narrative – Media stories and reputation can tilt the vote. In 2025, the focus is on Mbappé’s rise at Madrid and Bellingham’s growth into a world-class leader. Recent Ballon d’Or contenders analysis shows how much influence the media narrative can have on shaping expectations before the ceremony.
Top Contenders for the 2025 Ballon d’Or
Unlike the Messi–Ronaldo era, the 2025 race is wide open. The list of contenders reflects both established stars and rising talents, making this one of the most competitive editions in recent years. The full Ballon d’Or 2025 nominees include names from across Europe and South America, highlighting how diverse and competitive the field has become.
Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid / France)
Mbappé is once again one of the strongest favourites. His move to Real Madrid in 2024 raised expectations, and he has not disappointed. Combining blistering speed, clinical finishing, and leadership, he has been central to Madrid’s Champions League push and La Liga campaign.
At Euro 2024, France reached the latter stages, with Mbappé providing decisive goals. Even though they did not lift the trophy, his performances reinforced his status as the face of world football. If Madrid secure the Champions League, Mbappé will be very difficult to beat.
Key Strengths:
- Elite goal-scoring record
- Strong international tournament display
- Media profile and global reputation
Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid / England)
Bellingham has been a revelation since joining Real Madrid. The English midfielder combines technical quality with leadership and a knack for scoring in crucial moments. By 2025, he is not just a young star but one of the most complete midfielders in world football.
At Euro 2024, he carried England deep into the tournament, producing moments of brilliance. His maturity at just 22 makes him a serious candidate for the Ballon d’Or. Should Madrid claim another Champions League title, Bellingham will stand shoulder to shoulder with Mbappé in the debate.
Key Strengths:
- Box-to-box impact in big matches
- Consistency across club and country
- Rising popularity with voters
Lamine Yamal (Barcelona / Spain)
At only 18, Lamine Yamal is already rewriting records and redefining expectations for young talents in football. The Barcelona winger impressed with his composure, creativity, and fearless style of play throughout the 2024–25 season. Despite his age, he has become a decisive player for Barcelona, contributing goals and assists against top opposition.
His performances at Euro 2024 added further weight to his case. Spain went on to lift the trophy, and Yamal played a standout role, showing maturity well beyond his years. Few players of his age have ever made such an impact on both club and international football in the same season.
Key Strengths:
- Exceptional dribbling and creativity in attack
- Proven influence in high-pressure matches
- Breakthrough success at both Barcelona and Euro 2024 with Spain
Erling Haaland (Manchester City / Norway)
Haaland’s goal-scoring numbers remain staggering. At Manchester City, he continues to break records in the Premier League and Champions League. However, Norway’s absence from Euro 2024 is a major disadvantage. International tournaments often swing the Ballon d’Or vote, and without participation, Haaland must rely heavily on club success.
If City defend their Champions League crown and Haaland remains the top scorer in Europe, his case will strengthen significantly.
Key Strengths:
- Prolific goal-scoring record
- Ability to dominate matches with physical presence
- Crucial role in Manchester City’s system
Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid / Brazil)
Vinícius has evolved from a raw winger into one of the most feared forwards in world football. His dribbling, creativity, and finishing have made him Real Madrid’s difference-maker on many occasions. In Copa América 2024, he played a key role for Brazil, though they fell short of the trophy.
If Madrid triumph in Europe, Vinícius will be among the leading names in the final shortlist. He has the charisma and playing style that often appeals to voters.
Key Strengths:
- Explosive dribbling and creativity
- Increasing consistency in big games
- Growing influence at both club and national level
Dark Horses
Beyond the headline stars like Mbappé, Bellingham, Haaland, and Vinícius, there are several other nominees who could force their way into the Ballon d’Or debate if the season’s final stages swing in their favour. These players may not be the frontrunners, but their form, influence, and key performances make them potential surprises.
- Pedri (Barcelona / Spain):
Pedri has been one of Barcelona’s most important players when fit, offering balance, vision, and creativity in midfield. His performances at Euro 2024 with Spain highlighted his tactical intelligence and ability to control games against top opposition. If he can maintain fitness through the season and guide Barcelona deep into the Champions League, Pedri could move from outsider to serious contender. - Harry Kane (Bayern Munich / England):
Kane remains one of the most reliable goal-scorers in world football. His debut seasons at Bayern Munich have shown his adaptability, with prolific scoring in both the Bundesliga and Champions League. Kane also played a significant role for England at Euro 2024, helping them reach the final. If Bayern secure the Champions League and Kane finishes as top scorer, his Ballon d’Or chances would rise sharply. - Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain / France):
Often regarded as one of the most technically gifted wingers, Dembélé finally produced a season of consistency with PSG. His dribbling and creativity were vital in both Ligue 1 and the Champions League. At Euro 2024, he played a visible role for France, showing flashes of brilliance in crucial matches. If he can add decisive moments in the Champions League knockout rounds, he may receive more recognition from voters.
The Role of International Tournaments
Euro 2024 and Copa América 2024 have heavily influenced the race. Players like Mbappé and Bellingham gained exposure on the biggest international stage, while others like Haaland missed the chance.
Historically, international triumphs give players a huge advantage. For example, Luka Modrić’s 2018 Ballon d’Or win was fuelled by Croatia’s World Cup run. In 2025, those who performed well in Germany (Euro) and the United States (Copa) have a stronger case.
Prediction: Who Will Lift the Trophy?
Based on performances so far, the 2025 Ballon d’Or looks like a battle between Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham. Both have had remarkable seasons, both play for Real Madrid, and both excelled at international level.
- If Real Madrid win the Champions League, the award will likely come down to who had the most decisive role in Europe’s biggest matches.
- If Manchester City defend their crown, Haaland and De Bruyne will come back into contention.
- If sentiment plays a part, Messi could still receive votes for his enduring excellence.
At this stage, Mbappé appears to have the edge thanks to his global profile, consistent scoring, and decisive moments. But Bellingham’s rise cannot be ignored, and a few crucial matches in late 2025 may swing the outcome.
Conclusion
The Ballon d’Or 2025 ceremony promises to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. The award has moved into a new era, with Messi and Ronaldo stepping aside and a fresh generation of stars battling for recognition.
On 22 September 2025, football fans around the world will watch closely as the golden trophy is handed to the player judged to have defined the year. Whether it is Mbappé, Bellingham, Haaland, or a surprise name, the result will spark debate and shape football history for years to come.
