Explaining the Ballon d’Or changes

Have you ever been involved in a discussion centered around the Ballon d’Or that didn’t turn into a debate? Whether it is with colleagues, peers, family or especially online, engaging in a conversation about football’s most prestigious individual award becomes heated and is often left unresolved. Still, to this day, it is one of the game’s most contentious topics as one’s opinion on the matter is defined by preference. Earlier this year, France Football, the organisers of the accolade, announced significant amendments to the award’s criteria, starting with the timeframe considered and how many journalists get a vote. Were these changes made as a result of Lionel Messi’s controversial 2021 victory? And who are this year’s nominees? Soccer Laduma’s international team has all the answers!