Brazil and Real Madrid Star Vinicius Jr Leads Race for Men’s Ballon d’Or

On Monday, the world’s top football talents will convene in Paris for the Ballon d’Or ceremony, with Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior widely considered the frontrunner for the men’s award and Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmati strongly favored to secure her second consecutive women’s title.

The 2023/24 Ballon d’Or men’s shortlist is notable as it marks the first time since 2003 that neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo appears on the list, ending an era in which the two legends claimed the title 13 times between them.

Vinicius, who inherited the iconic number seven jersey at Real Madrid from Ronaldo, has been tipped by many experts to claim the title after an impressive season, which saw him help his team to the Spanish championship and a Champions League title.

“Vinicius is going to win the Ballon d’Or,” said Real Madrid’s coach Carlo Ancelotti after the forward’s hat-trick in Madrid’s recent 5-2 Champions League victory over Borussia Dortmund. “And not just because of the three goals—his character is extraordinary.”

The 24-year-old Brazilian was pivotal last season, scoring six goals that contributed to Madrid’s 15th Champions League title, including two in the semi-final and one in the final. Vinicius has also emerged as a prominent figure in the fight against racism, following repeated targeting since he joined Madrid in 2018. His confrontation with Valencia fans over racial abuse at Mestalla Stadium in May 2023 drew global attention and widespread support.

Other contenders for the men’s award include Vinicius’s teammate Jude Bellingham, Manchester City and Spanish star Rodri, as well as prolific scorers Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappe. Real Madrid right-back Dani Carvajal, who won La Liga, the Champions League, and the European Championship, is also among the nominees.

On the women’s side, Barcelona and Spain midfielder Bonmati is poised to defend her title after a stellar season where she led her team to a historic quadruple, winning the Spanish league, cup, Supercopa, and the Champions League. Barcelona’s strength in women’s football is underscored by the number of players from the club on the shortlist, including Caroline Graham Hansen and Salma Paralluelo, who are seen as Bonmati’s primary competition.

The Ballon d’Or ceremony will unfold in the heart of Paris on Monday, where the winners, chosen by an international panel of football journalists, will be announced.