30 male candidates and 30 female candidates were presented on Wednesday evening, and there were the expected and familiar names. Like Kylian Mbappé, Erling Braut Haaland, and Jude Bellingham among the men. Like Aitana Bonmatí, Alexia Putellas, and Ada Hegerberg on the women's side.
The Swedish national team stars were missing, however. Last year, both Fridolina Rolfö and Amanda Ilestedt were among the 30 on the women's side, where the award ultimately went to Bonmatí.
On the men's side, Lionel Messi received the Ballon d'Or last time, but neither he nor Cristiano Ronaldo are among the selected now. It's the first time since 2003 that neither of the two giants – they have received the award eight and five times, respectively – are among the nominees.
This year's Ballon d'Or ceremony will be held in Paris on October 28. The magazine France Football is behind the tradition-laden award.
