The 2025 Ballon d’Or is just around the corner and the football world is eagerly awaiting to find out who the new kings and queens of the season will be. In the men’s category, the big favourites are Ousmane Dembele (PSG) and Barcelona forwards Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, a trio that has even been analysed by artificial intelligence to predict the future winner.
In contrast, Frenchman Kylian Mbappe seems to have been left out of the fight. Real Madrid, his current club, would have decided not to attend the ceremony for the second year in a row, in protest at what they consider to be unfair treatment of their top scorer.
It’s not all about men’s football
The gala will also reward the best in women’s football, with Colombian Linda Caicedo nominated in the best young player category, representing Real Madrid. In addition, the best coach and the best club of the season will be recognised.
How much does the winner earn?
Although many believe that the Ballon d’Or comes with a large prize money, the reality is quite different: there is no direct financial compensation. The award, backed by France Football and UEFA, only gives the statuette as a symbol of prestige. In fact, the trophy – which is not made of pure gold – has an estimated value of 3,000 euros.
However, the impact goes far beyond the prize money. Clubs often offer bonuses and incentives to their award-winning players and brands take advantage of the opportunity to sign million-dollar advertising contracts with the winners.
More than a trophy
Lifting a Ballon d’Or means immediately increasing the market value and status of any footballer. After all, the prestige and global recognition far outweigh the absence of a direct financial reward.
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