The 2025 Ballon d’Or award ceremony will be held on September 22 at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, with organizers announcing a landmark decision to offer equal recognition for men and women in football.
For the first time, the number of awards for female and male players will be equal, reflecting a broader push for gender parity in the sport. This year’s ceremony will include new categories for women: Best Goalkeeper, Best Young Player, and Top Scorer in a club or national team.
In total, six awards will be presented in each category for men and women. Additionally, the Socrates Award—recognizing social initiatives and acts of solidarity—will continue to be open to players of any gender.
Nominees for all categories are expected to be announced in early August.
Last year’s event was marked by controversy when Spanish club Real Madrid boycotted the ceremony after learning that their Brazilian forward, Vinicius Junior, had not received the Best Men’s Player award. The honor ultimately went to Manchester City midfielder Rodri.
This year’s edition is expected to draw global attention, with anticipation building as the football world prepares to celebrate its top performers.
