With less than a week until the winners of the Ballon d’Or awards are announced, speculation is growing over who will claim this year’s coveted prize in the star-studded men’s category. While veteran stars like Harry Kane , record-breaking winner Lionel Messi and teen talent Lamine Yamal are favourites, the award has been notoriously unpredictable. Organisers say the trophy is awarded based on three criteria, in order of importance: Shortlisted candidates will be judged for their performances between August 3, 2025 and July 19, 2026 – the day of this year’s World Cup final.
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