The countdown to the prestigious Ballon d'Or is on! Football's biggest stars will gather in Paris, France, on Monday, October 28, for the glittering awards night at the Theatre du Chatelet.
This year, Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has captured attention with his impressive performances for Atalanta, putting him on the radar for football’s top accolades.
This year’s Ballon d’Or ceremony marks a historic collaboration between UEFA and Groupe Amaury, the powerhouse behind France Football.
Together, they’ve curated a lineup of eight award categories, including the highly respected Gerd Muller Award for top scorers and the Socrates Award, honouring players making a difference off the pitch.
The selection period spans the entire football season, from the previous August through to this year's August, covering major tournaments like AFCON, EURO, Copa America, and even the Olympics.
When is the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony?
The 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony kicks off on Monday, October 28. Taking place at the iconic Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, this glamorous event starts at 7:45 pm GMT (8:45 pm Nigerian time).
For fans in the U.S., tune in at 3:45 pm ET, while those in the UK can catch it live at 7:45 pm GMT.
Hosting this grand affair is none other than Ivorian and Chelsea legend Didier Drogba, joined by French-British journalist Sandy Heribert.
Where to watch the Ballon d’Or 2024 ceremony
The entire Ballon d’Or extravaganza will be broadcast live worldwide on the L’Equipe YouTube channel, ensuring fans from all corners of the globe can witness every moment of the ceremony.
What are the Ballon d'Or 2024 award categories?
While the prestigious Ballon d’Or Player of the Year steals the show, there are several other coveted titles up for grabs.
- Yashin Trophy: for the best goalkeeper
- Kopa Trophy: for top under 21 player in the world
- Coach of the Year
- Club of the Year
- Gerd Muller Trophy: rewards last season’s top goal scorers
- Socrates Award: recognises footballers who have made significant humanitarian contributions.
Will Ademola Lookman win the Ballon d'Or 2024?
On paper, Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior leads the pack for the Ballon d’Or, but he is up against fierce competition.
Jude Bellingham, Vinicius' Real Madrid teammate, is a strong contender alongside Manchester City’s midfield maestro, Rodri.
With his explosive impact at Atalanta, Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman is a dark horse in the race, the only African on board after thrilling fans with his elite performances for club and country.
The 27-year-old Nigerian international will be looking to become the second African to grab the award after George Weah, who was named FIFA World Player of the Year and won the Ballon d'Or in 1995.
Weah’s victory made him the first—and so far, only—player to claim these prestigious honors while representing an African country internationally.
This year’s Ballon d’Or promises a memorable night, with Ademola Lookman and other world-class players hoping to make history on one of football’s grandest stages.
