In a significant move that strengthens the credibility of football's most prestigious individual honour, England Women's manager Sarina Wiegman and former England men's boss Fabio Capello have been named as jurors for the 2024 Ballon d'Or awards.
The appointments, confirmed by organisers France Football, see two of the game's most respected tactical minds join the exclusive panel responsible for deciding the winners of the coveted golden ball. Wiegman's inclusion is particularly noteworthy, coming fresh from her leadership of the Lionesses to successive major tournament finals.
Expertise Meets Prestige
Wiegman brings a unique perspective to the jury, having masterminded England's triumphant UEFA Women's Euro 2022 campaign and their subsequent run to the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup final. Her understanding of the women's game at the highest level adds considerable weight to the voting process.
Meanwhile, Capello's extensive CV includes league titles with AC Milan, Real Madrid, and Roma, plus a Champions League victory. His experience managing England's national team from 2007 to 2012 provides him with invaluable insight into the international stage.
A New Era for Football's Top Honour
The Ballon d'Or, resurrected in its traditional annual format after a pandemic-induced interruption, continues to evolve. Last year's ceremony in Paris saw Lionel Messi claim his record-extending eighth men's award, while Spanish superstar Aitana Bonmatí secured the women's prize following her World Cup heroics.
With voting now underway for the 2024 awards, the inclusion of high-calibre football minds like Wiegman and Capello ensures the selection process benefits from deep tactical knowledge and contemporary understanding of the global game across both genders.
The football world now awaits the jury's decisions, with the winners scheduled to be unveiled at a glamorous ceremony in Paris this coming autumn.
