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Ballon d'Or: History, How It Works and Who Could Win in 2025

Every December football fans start arguing about who should get the Ballon d'Or. It’s the sport’s most prestigious individual award, and the debate never gets boring. Below we break down what the trophy really means, how the voting works, and which players are looking strongest for next year’s prize.

How the Ballon d'Or is Decided

The award is run by France Football, and a panel of journalists from around the world gets to vote. Each journalist ranks their top five players, giving 6 points for a first‑place vote, 4 for second, 3 for third, 2 for fourth and 1 for fifth. The player with the highest total points wins.

Since 2018 there have also been a small fan vote that adds a bonus tally, but the journalists still hold the main power. The criteria aren’t just about goals – it’s overall influence, consistency and performances in big matches, especially in the Champions League and major tournaments.

Who’s in the Race for 2025?

Looking ahead, a few names keep popping up in every conversation. Lionel Messi finally won his eighth Ballon d'Or in 2024 after a brilliant World Cup, so many wonder if he can pull off a historic back‑to‑back. At 37, his form is still amazing, but age is a factor.

On the other side, Kylian Mbappé has been on fire with Paris Saint‑Germain and the French national team. He’s already got three straight seasons with 30+ goals, and his game is getting smarter. If he stays injury‑free, he looks like a strong contender.

Erling Haaland is another serious threat. The Norwegian striker’s physicality and finishing have reshaped the Premier League, and his numbers keep climbing. Even if he doesn’t win every season, he’s always in the top‑three.

There are also surprise candidates. Players like Jude Bellingham, who now leads Real Madrid’s midfield, and Vinícius Júnior, whose dribbling has turned him into a goal‑machine, could break the usual Messi‑Ronaldo‑Mbappé pattern.

Finally, don’t forget the impact of big tournaments. The 2025 Euro or a late‑year World Cup would give a massive boost to whoever shines the brightest. History shows that a World Cup win often sways the ballot heavily.

So, who will lift the golden trophy in 2025? It’s a mix of personal stats, team success and a little bit of narrative drama. Keep an eye on the league leaders, watch the Champions League knockout rounds, and pay attention to the major international fixtures – those are the moments that decide the winner.

Whatever the outcome, the Ballon d’Or conversation will keep fans glued to their screens every December. Stay tuned with Sports Smart Consulting for the latest updates, expert breakdowns and the final voting results as soon as they’re announced.

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