London land historic first Ballon d'Or marks 70th anniversary
For the first time in the history of the Ballon d’Or, football’s most prestigious individual awards ceremony will be held outside Paris, with London confirmed as the host city for the landmark 70th edition on October 26.
The iconic award, created by France Football magazine in 1956, has grown into the highest individual honour in world football, recognising the best male and female players across the globe.
UEFA revealed that the decision to stage the ceremony in England’s capital is a tribute to legendary English footballer Stanley Matthews, who became the inaugural Ballon d’Or winner exactly 70 years ago.
“By staging its 70th edition in the capital of England and the United Kingdom, the Ballon d’Or continues its expansion and further strengthens its status as a globally prestigious brand,” UEFA stated on Thursday.
Although organisers are yet to unveil the official venue, excitement is already building ahead of what promises to be a spectacular night.
The previous edition saw Paris Saint-Germain winger Ousmane Dembele clinch the men’s award, while Barcelona star Aitana Bonmati once again underlined her dominance by winning the women’s prize.
With London preparing to welcome football’s biggest stars, this year’s ceremony is expected to deliver one of the most memorable Ballon d’Or nights ever.
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