The organisers of the Ballon d'Or have revealed the nominees for the best individual season in the history of the prestigious award. The special voting coincides with the 70th anniversary of the prize, which was first awarded in 1956.
Fans will have the chance to pick the greatest year from a stellar list featuring some of the most iconic Ballon d'Or winners. The nominees include Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Johan Cruyff, Michel Platini, Ronaldo, and other football legends.
Messi nominated eight times
It's no surprise that Lionel Messi is a prominent contender, having been nominated for eight different years: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, and the current year, 2023.
Cristiano Ronaldo follows with five nominations, credited for his outstanding performances in 2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2017.
Johan Cruyff makes the list for the seasons of 1971, 1973, and 1974, while Michel Platini is recognised for 1983, 1984, and 1985.
Full list of nominees
In total, the voting will feature ten legendary footballers and their respective standout years:
Lionel Messi: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, 2023.
Cristiano Ronaldo: 2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017.
Johan Cruyff: 1971, 1973, 1974.
Michel Platini: 1983, 1984, 1985.
Marco van Basten: 1988, 1989, 1992.
Ronaldo Nazario: 1997, 2002.
Franz Beckenbauer: 1972, 1976.
Alfredo Di Stefano: 1957, 1959.
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge: 1980, 1981.
Kevin Keegan: 1978, 1979.
When will the results be announced?
Fans can already participate in the voting and select their pick for the best individual year in Ballon d'Or history. According to the latest updates, voting will close at midnight on 27 October, with results expected to be unveiled the following day on 28 October.
The main ceremony for the award will be held on 26 October at the London Palladium.
This special voting is separate from the regular men's Ballon d'Or nomination for 2026, allowing fans not only to choose the best player of the current season but also to compare remarkable individual achievements from different eras.
