The anticipation surrounding the prestigious Ballon d’Or awards has reached new heights with the unveiling of the nominees for the 2024 edition. The awards ceremony, set to take place on Monday, October 28, at the iconic Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, promises to be a spectacular event, celebrating the best in football over the past year.
This year’s Ballon d’Or holds special significance as it marks the first edition co-organized by UEFA and Groupe Amaury, the parent company of France Football and L’Équipe, following a groundbreaking partnership announced at the end of last year. Since its inception in 1956, the Ballon d’Or has been the most coveted individual accolade in football, recognizing players for their exceptional talent and achievements on the global stage.
New Categories and Expanded Recognition
The 2024 Ballon d’Or awards will continue to feature its traditional categories, including the Men’s Ballon d’Or, the Women’s Ballon d’Or, the Kopa Trophy for the best player under 21, and the Yashin Trophy for the best goalkeeper. The Gerd Müller Trophy, awarded to the top scorer of the previous season, will also be part of the ceremony. Additionally, the Men’s and Women’s Club of the Year Trophies will recognize the best teams of the year.
However, this edition introduces two significant new categories: the Men’s Coach of the Year and Women’s Coach of the Year awards. These new trophies will honor the critical role that coaches play in guiding their teams to success, acknowledging their tactical genius and leadership on and off the pitch.
The nominees for all the awards have been selected based on their performances over the past season, with an emphasis on their impact in major tournaments and leagues. The full list of nominees is available on official channels, and fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the winners.
As the 68th edition of the Ballon d’Or approaches, the global football community is poised to celebrate the extraordinary talents and contributions that have defined the sport over the last year. The Théâtre du Châtelet, with its grandeur and historical significance, provides the perfect backdrop for what promises to be an unforgettable evening, honoring the very best in football.