69th Ballon d'Or Ceremony Set for September 22 in Paris

The 69th Ballon d'Or ceremony is approaching, scheduled for September 22 at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris. This year, UEFA introduces new categories to honor female players, with nominees to be announced in August. The awards will recognize both men's and women's achievements, including various trophies for young players, goalkeepers, and coaches. Last year's winners included Rodri for the men's award and Aitana Bonmati for the women's. The event promises to celebrate the best in football, making it a highly anticipated occasion for fans and players alike.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 20, 2025, 00:29 IST

Upcoming Ballon d'Or Ceremony

The prestigious 69th Ballon d'Or ceremony is set to take place on September 22 at the renowned Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, France.

Since last year, UEFA has collaborated with Groupe Amaury to organize this esteemed event. The Ballon d'Or, awarded annually by France Football since 1956, is the highest honor a football player can achieve, celebrating remarkable talent and significant accomplishments on the field.

This year, UEFA has introduced three new categories to honor the achievements of female athletes, with nominees expected to be revealed at the start of August.

The 2025 awards will feature both Men's and Women's Ballon d'Or, along with the Men's and Women's Kopa Trophy for the best young player, the Men's and Women's Yashin Trophy for the best goalkeeper, the Men's and Women's Gerd Muller Trophy for the top scorer, the Men's and Women's Johan Cruyff Trophy for the best coach, and the Men's and Women's Club of the Year. Additionally, the Socrates Award will be presented by the L'Équipe group and Peace and Sport to recognize solidarity efforts or societal contributions made by dedicated champions.

Last year, Rodri from Manchester City was honored with the 2024 Men's Ballon d'Or. Vinicius Jr, the Brazilian forward from Real Madrid, was also a strong contender but ultimately lost out to Rodri.

Aitana Bonmati from Barcelona Femeni secured the women's Ballon d'Or for the second consecutive year. Carlo Ancelotti, the manager of Real Madrid, received the Johan Cruyff Trophy as the best men's coach, while Emma Hayes, former Chelsea coach, won the women's award after guiding the USA to Olympic gold this summer. Real Madrid was also named the men's club of the year for 2024.

Yamine Lamal, a young talent from Barcelona, was awarded the Kopa Trophy for the best male player under 21, while Emiliano Martinez, the Argentine goalkeeper for Aston Villa, won the Lev Yashin Trophy for the second time in a row.