Ballon d’Or 2024: Everything to know ahead of prestigious award ceremony

The spotlight turns to Paris on Monday as football’s elite gather at the Theatre du Chatelet for the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony.

This year, a new generation of stars is poised to make history, marking the first Ballon d’Or in over two decades without Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo among the nominees.

Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior is widely seen as a top contender, alongside teammates Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham, both vying for the sport’s highest individual honour.

Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and Rodri also present strong cases following impressive seasons, and particularly for Rodri as a Euro 2024 wnner.

The event not only promises to celebrate today’s standout performers but is viewed as ushering in a new era, as fresh faces strive to reach the legendary status of previous winners.

Festivities kick off with red carpet arrivals at 7:00 p.m. local time, with the ceremony scheduled to start at 8:45 p.m. and finish by 10.30 p.m.