Who decides the winner of football's most prestigious individual prize, and why does it spark debate every year? We break down the voting criteria and the race for the Ballon d'Or.
Every year, the football world pauses on a single question: who deserves the Ballon d'Or? The award crowning the world's best player is not just a trophy but the culmination of a whole season of brilliance. But how is the winner actually chosen?
Who votes?
Voting relies on a panel of specialist journalists around the world, each ranking a shortlist of the best players. Points are tallied and the prize goes to the highest total. This diversity of voters gives the award a global character.
What are the criteria?
Individual and collective performance top the list: goals and decisive passes, trophies won with club and country such as the Champions League, and a player's value in the big moments. Scoring a lot isn't enough; you must make the difference when the pressure is highest.
Why the constant debate?
Disagreement is inevitable because comparing a match-winning forward with a goalkeeper who saved his team or an unbeaten defender is always subjective. Each voter weighs the criteria differently, so results vary and debates ignite.
The legacy of the greats
Exceptional stars dominated the award for years, raising expectations and making every new generation measure itself against them. Today, the fading of a historic era opens the door for a new generation to write its name in gold.
Conclusion
The Ballon d'Or mirrors a full season of creativity, pressure and decisive moments. And while the race heats up each year, the real joy is following the players minute by minute — which is exactly what we offer in our Stars and Top Scorers sections.
FAQ
Who votes for the Ballon d'Or?
The award is decided by a panel of specialist journalists from different countries around the world, each submitting a ranked list of the best players. Points are allocated according to the rankings and the prize goes to the player with the highest total. This geographic diversity gives the award its global character and fuels debate every year.
What criteria decide the Ballon d'Or?
Individual and collective performance top the list: goals and decisive passes, trophies won with club and country, and a player's impact in the biggest moments such as finals. Scoring a lot is not enough; what matters is making the difference under pressure. Sportsmanship and conduct on and off the pitch are also sometimes considered.
Why is the winner's selection so controversial every year?
Because comparing players in different positions is inherently subjective; how do you weigh a match-winning forward against a goalkeeper who saved his team or an unbeaten defender? Each voter balances the criteria differently, so outcomes vary. Strong fan loyalties also mean that any choice will be disputed by supporters of the rival stars.
How can I track the Ballon d'Or contenders' performances?
The best approach is to follow players' numbers across the whole season rather than a single match: goals, assists, appearances and trophies. On Shahid Live you will find continuously updated player profiles and top-scorer lists for each league, helping you form your own view of the contenders before the award is announced.
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