France Football, organizers of the prestigious Ballon d’Or awards, has announced a significant change in tradition.
This year’s winner will not be interviewed before the ceremony, breaking a long-standing custom.
The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner will remain unaware of their victory until the envelope is opened live on stage at the October 28 ceremony.
Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior is currently favored to take home the prize, following an exceptional season that saw Los Blancos claim LaLiga and Champions League titles.
Other contenders include Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Rodri.
According to Mario Cortegana of The Athletic, this new rule adds an extra layer of suspense to the ceremony, ensuring the winner’s reaction is genuine and unscripted.
The change aims to maintain the surprise and excitement of the award, keeping the winner and audience in anticipation until the very moment of announcement.
