The stage is set in Paris tonight for the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony, and bookmakers have released their latest odds. The numbers make it clear who the favourites are and who faces an uphill battle.
The Clear Favourite
Ousmane Dembélé (1/6)
The PSG star is the overwhelming frontrunner after delivering a historic treble with the French champions. His performances across competitions have put him far ahead of the rest of the field.
The Main Challenger
Lamine Yamal (4/1)
Barcelona’s teenage sensation is considered the closest threat to Dembélé. His electrifying displays have earned him serious respect among voters and bookmakers alike.
Dark Horses
Vitinha (16/1): The midfield engine who enjoyed a standout season, though still viewed as an outside contender.
Mohamed Salah (16/1): Despite his age, the Liverpool forward remains highly rated after winning the Premier League and topping both goals and assists charts.
Outside Chances
Raphinha (28/1): Had a brilliant Champions League campaign with the most goals and assists, but would need a major swing in opinion to leapfrog the favourites.
Kylian Mbappé (33/1): Even after winning the European Golden Shoe with Real Madrid, bookmakers see him with almost no chance this year.
Cole Palmer (33/1): Recognised for his potential, though not a serious contender just yet.
Long Shots
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (40/1): Highly talented, but Napoli’s limited success holds him back.
Achraf Hakimi (40/1): Excellent defensively and offensively, yet history suggests defenders rarely win the award.
Nuno Mendes (50/1): A solid season, but still far behind the frontrunners.
Extra Storylines
Ligue 1 Controversy: The French league attempted to delay the PSG–Marseille match until Tuesday to allow players to attend the gala. Marseille refused and even threatened legal action.
Edu Aguirre’s Claim: The Madrid-based journalist has gone further than the bookmakers, insisting that “Lamine Yamal has already won the Ballon d’Or.”
In short, it looks like a two-horse race between Dembélé and Yamal, with everyone else — even Mbappé — expected to fall short.
