Both L’Equipe and France Football, the organizers of the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony, have recently confirmed that this year’s event will occur on September 22nd. Set to take place in the elegant ThéÒtre du ChΓ’telet in Paris, this ceremony is not just a highlight of the football calendar but also a showcase of the sport’s top talents.
This year promises to be particularly groundbreaking, as it marks a significant shift in how the awards are presented. For the first time in history, all trophies awarded traditionally to men will now also be given to women. This landmark decision reflects a broader commitment to promoting gender equality within sports, acknowledging the extraordinary contributions and accomplishments of women in football. As the sport strives for inclusivity, this innovation sets a precedent for future awards and recognitions across various sports and disciplines.
In an eagerly awaited development, France Football has announced that the nominees for the Ballon d’Or and other associated awards will be unveiled during the first half of August. Although a specific date has yet to be decided, anticipation is already building regarding who will be nominated. The revelation of nominees is an exciting moment for fans, as it highlights the playersβ achievements and sparks debates among football enthusiasts about who merits recognition.
When it comes to the selection process, France Football has preserved the established voting system from previous years. There will be 100 journalists casting votes for the men’s Golden Ball, while 50 will be involved in the women’s category. Each journalist represents their respective countries, as determined by their standing in the top 100 of FIFA’s world rankings (or the top 50 for women). This structure allows for a diverse array of perspectives, as journalists across the globe weigh in on the nominees. Each journalist is tasked with selecting a top 10 players, with points allotted based on their choice rankings. The player who accumulates the most accumulated points from these votes will earn the coveted Ballon d’Or award.
Moreover, France Football has introduced a modification to the voting criteria that will shape how players are evaluated this year. There are three main criteria that will now carry weight in deciding the award: first and foremost, the focus will be on individual performances and the player’s ability to decisively influence games; next, the collective achievements and titles won by their respective teams will also be considered; finally, the dimensions of class and fair play will play a role in how players are assessed. Notably, the previous criterion that took a playerβs full career into account has been eliminated for this yearβs ballot. This change allows voters to concentrate more on the recent seasonβs performance rather than a player’s historical contributions, bringing the focus squarely on current achievements.
As the date for the Ballon d’Or ceremony draws near, excitement is palpable among players, fans, and the broader football community. The introduction of this new format not only amplifies recognition for outstanding talents but also marks an essential step toward greater equality in the sport. With both male and female athletes gearing up for this prestigious accolade, the upcoming ceremony promises to be a momentous occasion that celebrates the essence of football and its global impact.
World of sports 
Leave a comment