Paris, France – 7 August 2025 – France Football, the prestigious organiser of the Ballon d’Or, has officially released the 30-man shortlist for the 2025 edition of the award, set to be presented on 22 September 2025 at the iconic Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris.
The list was curated with input from top international journalists and was shared via France Football’s official social media platforms. Among the most notable names are players who have had standout seasons across European leagues and international competitions.
Top Contenders
This year’s favourites include:
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Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain): Instrumental in PSG’s treble-winning season, including their UEFA Champions League triumph.
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Lamine Yamal (Barcelona): At just 17 years old, the Spanish winger lit up La Liga and Euro 2024 with dazzling displays.
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Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid): After a stellar debut season in Madrid, Mbappé remains one of football’s biggest stars.
READ ALSO: Ramos tips Mbappé for Ballon d’Or glory despite trophy shortfall
Others shortlisted include:
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Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
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Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
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Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain)
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Viktor Gyökeres (Arsenal)
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Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona)
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Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
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Serhou Guirassy (Borussia Dortmund)
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Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan)
Sources like AS and Cadena SER suggest a tight contest, with no runaway leader in sight.
Former French international Emmanuel Petit has thrown his support behind Dembélé, praising his leadership and adaptability under Luis Enrique at PSG, and dismissing speculation that younger players like Yamal are ready to clinch the prize.
“Ousmane deserves it. He’s matured, delivered when it mattered most, and led from the front,” Petit told TalkSport.
Meanwhile, media campaigns backing Yamal have gained traction, as fans marvel at his record-breaking achievements at such a young age.
About the Ballon d’Or
Now in its 69th edition, the Ballon d’Or remains football’s highest individual honour, awarded annually to the best-performing male footballer over the previous season.
