Ballon d'Or 2024: What's New and What's Staying the Same?
So, the Ballon d'Or is coming up again, and you're probably wondering what's changed, right? Well, let's dive in and break down the format and new rules for this prestigious award.
Changes You Need to Know
This year, the Ballon d'Or has undergone some significant changes, and they're pretty big deals. The biggest one is that the voting period has shifted. It's no longer just the calendar year, but instead, it goes from August 1st to July 31st. This means the season for award contenders is longer and can include both the Champions League and European Championship.
Another major change is the introduction of a new award: the Kopa Trophy for the best young player, under 21 years old. This award aims to recognize the talent of emerging stars in football.
What's Staying the Same
Despite these changes, some things remain the same. The Ballon d'Or still recognizes the best male footballer based on individual performance and team success over the previous year. The voting process also stays the same, with a panel of journalists from around the world casting their ballots.
How Does the Voting Work?
The voting system is simple enough. Each journalist selects their top five players, giving points based on their ranking. First place gets five points, second place gets four, and so on. The player with the highest total points at the end of the voting process wins the coveted Ballon d'Or.
Who's Going to Win?
That's the question everyone wants answered! The 2024 Ballon d'Or is shaping up to be a nail-biter. With a new season, new players, and a fresh format, we're in for a wild ride. So buckle up, folks, and get ready for the biggest night in football!
Note: This article provides general information on the Ballon d'Or changes. For the latest updates and details, please consult official sources.