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2026 Ballon d'Or Nominees: Announcement Date and Ceremony Details

The 70th Ballon d'Or winner will be announced this October, honoring the best soccer player of the 2025/26 season with the sport's most prestigious individual prize. Last year's recipient, Rodri, who played a key role in Spain's World Cup victory, could contend for the award again.

This year’s ceremony is unique, moving away from its usual Paris setting to London to mark the anniversary of the first winner, Sir Stanley Matthews.

Nominee Announcement Details

France Football will disclose the shortlist of nominees on Tuesday, September 8, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. CET. The list will include 30 players, from which the eventual winner will emerge.

During the gala, votes will be counted, ranking the 30 candidates from lowest to highest, culminating with the top-ranked player receiving the award.

When Is the Ballon d'Or Ceremony?

The award ceremony is scheduled for Monday, October 26. While typically held in Paris, the 70th edition’s men's event will take place in London as a tribute to the inaugural champion.

How Are Winners Selected?

An international panel of journalists organized by France Football selects the 30 finalists for the men's Ballon d'Or and the Yashin Award for best goalkeeper. Meanwhile, 50 women’s soccer journalists choose the women's Ballon d'Or nominees. For the Kopa Trophy honoring under-21 players, 32 former Ballon d'Or winners nominate 10 finalists.

Recently, the number of jurors was reduced to sharpen the focus on individual merit. This change aims to enhance fairness amid controversies, such as Madrid’s vocal objections to Rodri’s win and debates surrounding Messi's 2023 victory.

  • Event: Ballon d'Or 70th Edition
  • Nominee Announcement: September 8, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. CET
  • Number of Nominees: 30 players
  • Ceremony Date: October 26
  • Ceremony Location: London, England (instead of Paris)
  • Selection Panels:Men’s Ballon d’Or and Yashin Award: International journalists
  • Women’s Ballon d’Or: 50 women’s soccer journalists
  • Kopa Trophy (U21): 32 former Ballon d'Or winners

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