The prestigious Ballon d’Or awards ceremony will mark a historic milestone this year, with organisers confirming that male and female footballers will receive an equal number of accolades for the first time. The event is scheduled for September 22, 2025, at the renowned Theatre du Chatelet in Paris.
France Football magazine and UEFA announced on Monday that new categories have been introduced to celebrate the achievements of women in football. Awards for Best Women’s Goalkeeper, Best Young Women’s Player, and Top Women’s Scorer—whether at club or international level—will debut this year. These additions bring the total to six awards each for male and female players, alongside the Socrates Award, which recognises individuals promoting social solidarity and remains open to all.
The list of nominees for the Ballon d’Or 2025 will be revealed in early August, as anticipation builds for what promises to be a landmark evening in the global football calendar.
Last year’s ceremony was clouded by controversy when Real Madrid boycotted the event after their Brazilian star Vinicius Junior was overlooked for the Best Men’s Player award, which ultimately went to Manchester City’s Rodri. Organisers are hopeful that this year’s expanded and more inclusive awards programme will usher in a new era of recognition and unity.
