Ballon d'Or 2024: Who's in the Race and How to Follow

Few trophies shape a player's legacy like the Ballon d'Or. On this page you'll find clear, up-to-date coverage of the 2024 race: the likely contenders, the voting basics, African players to watch, plus how to catch the ceremony live.

The rules and voting matter more than fans think. Journalists, national team coaches and captains cast the votes, each ranking five players. That mix means club success, individual stats and big moments—Champions League goals, World Cup displays, major trophies—shift opinion fast. Voters also respond to narrative: a player breaking records or leading an underdog team gets attention even if raw numbers aren't the highest.

Who are the front-runners? Expect forwards who carried their teams to trophies and midfielders who changed matches. Names often in the mix include players who won the Champions League, topped league scoring charts, or starred in continental tournaments. Don’t ignore creative midfielders whose vision and assists drive wins—those moments matter when voters remember a match-winning pass more than a tidy stat line.

African football has a strong voice this year. Talented attackers and defenders from the continent have pushed into top European sides and continental competitions. When an African player beats top teams in the Champions League or shines at AFCON, voters notice. Watch for players who combined club success in Europe with standout national-team performances—those double seasons boost Ballon d'Or chances more than a single hot month.

How to follow the ceremony and not miss the highlights. The Ballon d'Or show usually lands in the autumn; broadcasters and major sports sites stream the event live. Follow official social accounts for minute-by-minute updates and short clips. If you prefer data, check trusted stats sites right after the ceremony for goal tallies, assists and minutes played—those pages make it easy to compare nominees at a glance.

Controversies are part of the story. Every year debates flare about whether the award favours forwards, favours winners over consistent performers, or reflects popularity. Ask yourself: do you value peak moments or a full season of elite performance? Your view shapes how you judge nominees and who deserves the trophy.

Want quick reads and reaction? Bookmark this tag. We’ll gather nominee lists, short profiles, reaction pieces and African-focused takes as the votes roll in. Expect concise updates, sharp takes on who should have been included, and practical guides on where to watch.

Got a pick? Tell us. Readers’ votes don't count for the Ballon d'Or, but they make for lively debate. Share who you think should win and why—was it goals, trophies, or that one unforgettable match-winning moment?

Quick checklist before you judge nominees: 1) Trophies won this season. 2) Goals and assists in major competitions. 3) Influence in big games (late winners, knockout goals). 4) Consistency across the season. 5) Leadership and moments that shaped titles. Use this to make your pick or argue online—it's a better debate than raw popularity.

We update this tag as soon as shortlist news drops, plus winner reaction and analysis after the ceremony. Stay tuned.