The footballing elite gathered in Paris this weekend for the glitzy Ballon d’Or ceremony, where players, coaches, and celebrities showcased their finest outfits ahead of one of the sport’s most prestigious nights.
The atmosphere at Théâtre de Châtelet was buzzing as top stars arrived to celebrate individual brilliance from the past season.
Lamine Yamal Leads the Arrivals
Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal, just 18, was the first of the top three favourites to make his entrance.
The young star was joined by his family, radiating youthful confidence as he posed for photos and soaked in the glamour of the evening.
Star-Studded Lineup
PSG’s Ousmane Dembele also made a stylish arrival, wearing a classic black suit with a crisp white shirt and sunglasses, stopping for photos before heading inside.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk appeared alongside his wife Rike Nooitdagt, while his teammate Alisson attended with partner Natalia Loewe.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot and England manager Sarina Wiegman were also present, adding to the high-profile mix.
The women’s game was well represented, too.
Lionesses Chloe Kelly, Alessia Russo, and Leah Williamson posed with Arsenal teammates, all three firmly in contention for the Ballon d’Or Féminin.
Celebrity Glamour on Display
It wasn’t just footballers who stole the spotlight.
Popular broadcaster Kate Scott turned heads in a low-cut silver sequin dress and shared a kiss with her husband Malik, adding extra sparkle to the red carpet festivities.
Men’s Ballon d’Or Contenders
The top 10 for the men’s prize features familiar names such as Dembele, Yamal, and Mohamed Salah, alongside Cole Palmer and Kylian Mbappe.
Organisers had revealed the top 30 rankings earlier in the day, offering some surprises.
Manchester City striker Erling Haaland fell to 26th, just ahead of Arsenal’s Declan Rice and two spots above Van Dijk.
Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham finished in 23rd, Arsenal’s new signing Viktor Gyokeres landed 15th, and Harry Kane was placed 13th.
LaLiga Snubs the Ceremony
Notably, Real Madrid again chose to boycott the Ballon d’Or ceremony, refusing to send representatives to Paris.
The ongoing dispute with organisers stems from last year’s award, when Rodri narrowly beat Vinicius Jr, leaving LaLiga giants dissatisfied with the outcome.