The race for football's most coveted individual prize, the Ballon d'Or, has taken a dramatic turn with the leak of key voting details for the 2024 ceremony. While the glittering event in Paris is still months away, the criteria and an unexpected favourite have been revealed, setting the stage for a potential upset.
The New Voting System: A Game Changer
France Football, the award's organisers, have confirmed a significant shift in the voting timeline. For the first time, the judging period will align perfectly with the European football season, running from August 2023 to July 2024. This change effectively sidelines major international tournaments like the 2022 World Cup, which had a heavy influence on previous awards, and places the emphasis squarely on club performances.
The new system means achievements from the current season—such as the Champions League, Premier League, and La Liga titles—will carry unprecedented weight.
Jude Bellingham: The Surprise Frontrunner
According to insider reports, Real Madrid and England superstar Jude Bellingham has surged to the top of the list of favourites. His sensational debut season in Spain, where he played a pivotal role in Real Madrid's La Liga and Champions League double, has made him the man to beat.
The key factors boosting Bellingham's candidacy include:
- Historic Debut: A goal-scoring record-breaking start at the world's biggest club.
- Trophy Haul: Securing the two most prestigious club trophies in a single campaign.
- Individual Brilliance: Consistently match-winning performances on the biggest stages.
The Challengers: Who Can Catch Bellingham?
Bellingham faces fierce competition from the usual suspects, but their paths to the podium are now more complicated.
Kylian Mbappé: Despite a prolific final season with Paris Saint-Germain and the impending high-profile move to Real Madrid, the lack of a deep Champions League run and the devaluation of World Cup performances from 2022 hinder his chances.
Harry Kane: The England captain had a phenomenal individual season with Bayern Munich, breaking scoring records. However, Bayern's trophy-less campaign is a significant mark against him in the eyes of many voters.
Vinicius Junior: Bellingham's teammate is a genuine contender. His stellar performances in the latter stages of the Champions League, including a decisive goal in the final, make him a powerful candidate. A strong Copa América with Brazil could further bolster his claim.
The Messi Factor and Euro 2024's Limited Influence
Reigning champion Lionel Messi is not expected to be a major factor this year, with Inter Miami's MLS campaign carrying less weight. Meanwhile, the European Championship, while prestigious, will conclude after the voting deadline, meaning its impact will be minimal unless a player's performances are so extraordinary they linger in the minds of journalists.
The 2024 Ballon d'Or ceremony is scheduled for Monday, 28th October, at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. With the new voting rules in play, this year's award promises to be one of the most intriguing and debated in recent memory.
