The ballon d’or 2025 ceremony kicks off on Monday, October 20, at 2:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time, offering U.S. fans a front-row seat to football’s most prestigious individual award. Knowing what time is the ballon d’or ceremony 2025 ensures you won’t miss Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé or women’s football stars collecting their golden trophies live from Paris. This comprehensive guide covers the ceremony schedule, broadcast details, contenders for who won the ballon d’or 2025, and viewing tips tailored for a USA audience.
Ballon d’Or 2025 Time and Schedule
To catch all the live action, mark your calendar and set reminders:
The ballon d’or 2025 time in local U.S. zones is as follows:
| U.S. Time Zone | Ceremony Start Time | Reception & Interviews |
| Eastern (EDT) | 2:00 PM | 2:00–4:00 PM |
| Central (CDT) | 1:00 PM | 1:00–3:00 PM |
| Mountain (MDT) | 12:00 PM | 12:00–2:00 PM |
| Pacific (PDT) | 11:00 AM | 11:00 AM–1:00 PM |
Doors open at 1:30 PM local Paris time (7:30 AM EDT), giving nominees and media time for red-carpet photos before the televised ceremony begins at 8:00 PM CEST. A post-ceremony gala and interviews continue through 10:00 PM CEST, with highlights and reaction packages airing on U.S. sports networks later that evening.
How to Watch the Ballon d’Or Ceremony Live in the USA
Accessing streaming and broadcast options ensures you see every moment of the ballon d’or ceremony:
In the United States, beIN SPORTS holds exclusive live rights. Subscribers can tune in via cable or streaming platforms such as Sling TV, FuboTV, and beIN SPORTS Connect. For cord-cutters without a subscription, services like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV offer beIN SPORTS as an add-on.
Highlights and expert analysis air immediately after the live ceremony on ESPN2 and FS1. In addition, official social media channels for France Football provide real-time updates and behind-the-scenes clips.
Contenders and Predictions for Ballon d’Or 2025
Before the ceremony, fans debate who won the ballon d’or 2025. Leading contenders include:
Lionel Messi continued his dominance by securing the Copa América in 2025, while Kylian Mbappé shattered PSG scoring records and led France to Euro 2024 triumph. On the women’s side, Alexia Putellas and Sam Kerr vied for the women’s Ballon d’Or after standout seasons for Barcelona and Chelsea respectively.
Analysts weigh club trophies, individual statistics, and international success. Messi’s seventh Ballon d’Or would break all records, but Mbappé’s youth and recent form make him a strong challenger. Fans in the U.S. can follow live polling on France Football’s website and join social media discussions under #BallonDor.
Ceremony Format and Highlights
The ballon d’or ceremony blends tradition with modern flair:
Following a brief welcome by France Football’s editor-in-chief, nominees for the women’s Ballon d’Or and Kopa Trophy (best U21 player) are honored. Next, presenters reveal the women’s winner, followed by the men’s shortlist countdown from tenth to first. Special awards—including the Yashin Trophy (best goalkeeper) and Gerd Müller Trophy (top scorer)—feature between presentations.
The stage setup in Paris’ Théâtre du Châtelet offers intimate close-ups of winners reacting live. Expect video montages celebrating each nominee’s season highlights and surprise appearances by football legends.
Why the Ballon d’Or Matters in the USA
Although soccer competes with American football and basketball, the ballon d’or ceremony attracts growing U.S. interest:
Major league players like Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie have elevated MLS and Serie A profiles among American fans. The success of the U.S. Women’s National Team and social media engagement around global soccer stars fuels viewership.
Benefit to U.S. audiences includes access to exclusive interviews with rookies like U.S. Women’s player Sophia Smith and insights into European football culture. Watching the Ballon d’Or live enhances fandom for new soccer enthusiasts and experienced supporters alike.
Top Moments from Past Ceremonies
Reflecting on past shows helps set expectations for when is the ballon d’or ceremony and its iconic moments:
In 2021, Messi’s emotional acceptance speech at the Théâtre du Châtelet marked his sixth win. Megan Rapinoe’s 2019 victory energized U.S. women’s soccer fans globally. Cristiano Ronaldo’s multiple appearances and Zlatan Ibrahimović’s surprise nominations added celebrity drama.
These milestones highlight the gala’s blend of sports excellence, personal stories, and international unity, making the Ballon d’Or a must-watch event even for casual viewers seeking cultural moments beyond the game.
Experience Guide for U.S. Fans
To make the most of the ballon d’or ceremony 2025, follow these viewer tips:
Prepare pre-game coverage by watching highlight reels of top nominees. Host a watch party with friends, serving themed snacks like “golden” popcorn and faux trophies for prediction contests. Engage on social media using designated emojis and hashtags. After the live show, compare notes with online fan forums to discuss surprises and snubs.
FAQ
What time is the Ballon d’Or ceremony 2025 in the USA?
The ceremony starts at 2:00 PM EDT on October 20, with regional times from 1:00 PM CDT to 11:00 AM PDT.
Who won the Ballon d’Or 2025?
Winners will be announced live at the Théâtre du Châtelet; official results will be updated on France Football’s website immediately after the ceremony.
What options do I have to watch the Ballon d’Or ceremony live?
In the U.S., tune in to beIN SPORTS via cable or streaming platforms like Sling TV, FuboTV, and beIN SPORTS Connect.
When is the Ballon d’Or ceremony held each year?
The ceremony typically takes place in October, with official dates announced by France Football several months in advance.
What prizes are awarded at the Ballon d’Or ceremony?
In addition to the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or, awards include the Kopa Trophy for best U21 player, Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper, and Gerd Müller Trophy for top scorer.