Ballon d'Or 2024: Who’s in the Running and Why

The Ballon d'Or still matters. It’s the biggest individual trophy in football and this year the race is tighter than usual. If you want a clear, short read on who’s likely to win, why they matter, and what to watch on ceremony night, you’re in the right place.

Favorites and real contenders

Think of this as a shortlist you can actually use. Players who had major club or international impact during the season always sit near the top. Stars like Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland often dominate talk because of goals and trophies. But don’t ignore breakthrough names: a striker who carried a mid-table club, a defender who locked down a title run, or a goalkeeper who produced decisive saves can push into contention.

Context matters. Winning the Champions League or a major international tournament gives a big boost. So does being the top scorer in a major league or scoring clutch goals at big moments. Voters look at numbers, trophies, and memorable moments — not just reputation.

How voting works — simple version

Voting goes to a mix of journalists, national team coaches and captains. Each voter ranks their top players and points are added up. There’s no single global public vote that decides the winner — it’s experts. That means media narratives and highlight moments often tilt results as much as season-long stats.

That system creates two things to watch: media momentum and season-defining matches. If a player lights up a final or carries a team at a major tournament, they climb in the pecking order quickly. Consistent season-long performers sometimes lose ground if they lack a headline moment.

Expect debate. The Ballon d'Or often sparks arguments about whether a player’s individual numbers beat a rival’s team trophies. Fans will always pick different criteria, and that’s part of the fun.

Practical tips for following the announcement: check official Ballon d'Or channels for live updates, follow trusted sports outlets for analysis, and watch highlight reels to judge for yourself. If you follow club football, keep an eye on players who backed up strong club seasons with international impact — those are often the winners.

Finally, think beyond the winner. The top 10 list shows emerging stars and players who could win next year. If you’re betting on future talent or following transfers, the Ballon d'Or shortlists are a useful indicator of who’s rising in value and reputation.

Want updates? Ginger Apple News will cover the shortlist, live reactions, and post-award analysis, focusing on how the results ripple across clubs and national teams in Africa and beyond.