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Football giants UEFA and Groupe Amaury have joined forces to co-organize the prestigious Ballon d'Or 2024.
As UEFA's official website claims this partnership aims to elevate the awards' stature and expand their global influence while fostering unity and cooperation within the football community.
This is a significant shift in the global football landscape that places UEFA ahead of FIFA's world awards in terms of significance.
How will it work?
Under the terms of the partnership, Groupe Amaury will retain ownership of the Ballon d'Or brand and the existing voting system, which will remain unaltered. On the other hand, UEFA will assume responsibility for managing the global commercial rights for the event and arranging the annual awards gala.
This partnership marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Ballon d'Or. It upholds its prestigious legacy while introducing fresh elements and emphasizes the enduring connections between these football powerhouses.
Ballon d'Or 2023 Winner Lionel Messi / Image Source: Getty Images
What's going to be different about the Ballon d'Or?
Argentine superstar Lionel Messi won his eighth Ballon d'Or, a recognition of his key role in Argentina's World Cup victory. Spanish World Cup star Aitana Bonmati also claimed the women's Ballon d'Or.
This merger marks the end of the traditional UEFA awards in August, except for the President's Award, which will continue during Champions League, Europa League, and Europa Conference League draws.
UEFA will still honor the best player in each of its club competitions, decided by its technical study group after each competition's final.
The program is set to include two new awards, recognizing the significant contributions of coaches in achieving on-field success. These awards will honor both men and women coaches of the year.
The existing assortment of trophies, which includes the Men’s Ballon d'Or, Women's Ballon d'Or, Kopa Trophy, Yashin Trophy, Gerd Müller Trophy, Men’s Club of the Season Trophy, Women’s Club of the Season Trophy, and the Sócrates Award for humanitarian efforts, will retain their current names and categories.
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