The 2024 Ballon d'Or ceremony is fast approaching, and this year's award guarantees a fresh face at the top. After Lionel Messi claimed his record-breaking eighth Ballon d'Or in 2023, both he and Cristiano Ronaldo are notably absent from the shortlist, marking a new era for football's most prestigious individual accolade. Luka Modric and Karim Benzema, two former Real Madrid stars, are also missing from the list, signaling a significant changing of the guard.

The frontrunner for the award is Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior, who is vying to become the first Brazilian winner since Kaka in 2007. His stellar performances played a pivotal role in Real Madrid's triumphant season, where the club secured the Champions League, La Liga, and the Spanish Super Cup titles. Vinicius' teammate, Jude Bellingham, has also made the shortlist, cementing his place among football’s elite after an outstanding season.

Manchester City's Rodri is another strong contender, having been instrumental in helping his club clinch yet another Premier League title, and later leading Spain to victory at Euro 2024. If Vinicius falters, Rodri is widely considered the next likely winner. Rodri is one of ten Premier League players to make the 30-man shortlist, alongside other stars like Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, and Martin Odegaard.

When and Where to Watch the 2024 Ballon d’Or

The winner will be announced on Monday, October 28, 2024, at the iconic Theatre du Chatelet in Paris. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 7pm GMT. Fans can watch the event live on L’Equipe’s YouTube channel and website. Standard Sport will also provide a live blog covering all the action as it unfolds.

Ballon d’Or 2024 Shortlist Highlights

Among the 30 players on this year's shortlist are standout names from clubs across Europe. Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane are in the running, alongside Real Madrid’s seasoned midfielders Toni Kroos and Federico Valverde. Rising talents like Cole Palmer and Nico Williams are also included, reflecting a blend of experience and youth in this year’s contenders.

Other Prestigious Awards to Be Announced

In addition to the men’s Ballon d’Or, the Feminin Ballon d’Or will be awarded. English stars Lucy Bronze, Lauren James, and Lauren Hemp are among the nominees, while Spain boasts a strong contingent with Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas as top contenders. American players Sophia Smith, Trinity Rodman, and Lindsey Horan are also in the mix, following the United States' Olympic gold success under coach Emma Hayes.

The Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best under-21 male player, has Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho on the shortlist. However, Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal is considered the favorite to take home the prize. For goalkeepers, Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez is the only Premier League player nominated for the Yashin Trophy.

The men’s coach of the year award will see a tough competition between Pep Guardiola, Carlo Ancelotti, and Xabi Alonso, all of whom have had outstanding seasons leading their respective teams.

The 2024 Ballon d’Or promises to be a landmark event, with new names set to be etched into football history. Fans eagerly await to see who will emerge victorious in Paris next week.